My uncle owns a 2 story building but does not speak english very well. The real estate agent told him that the site needed to an AFSS for 2024 and that he knew someone that could do it. After the inspection, the company said it was non compliant and needed some installments to make it up to code. Since my uncle was scared of getting fined, he agreed for the works to go ahead.
This is the break down of the costs (all gst inclusive):
Room 1: $1620 for replacement fire extinguisher and signage, new fire blanket, fit 2 exit and 2 emergency lights.
Room 2: $1800 for 2 fire extinguishers, 3 emergency lights, 2 exit signs
Room 3: 1880 for new fire blanket, 1 exit sign and 3 emergency lights
Room 4: 1900 for 3 new emergency lights and 2 exit signs
Room 5: 2100 for replace flickering exit sign, replace 1 1x2ft and 1 x 4emergency fluro, add 2 emergency lights and 1 exit sign.
Garage: 280 for 1 emergency light
Total: $9,300
I am wondering if they are over charging as it looks quite excessive. They have already completed the works and are now demanding the money. I told my uncle not to pay yet to see if we can negotiate the costs down or something. What do you think will be the best steps to reduce the costs?
The time to ask was before the work was done, not after.
Did your uncle get a quote up front, or an agreement of some sort?