Property Marketing
.

The Times Property
 
The Times Real Estate

.

The Tradie Cost Cutting Fee They Don't Want You to Know

  • Written by Scene Magazine

Paid image from Envato

There is a sneaky little cost that tradies don’t exactly advertise — the call out fee. What they don’t want you to know is that the fee you pay just for them to turn up is often more than the cost of the repair itself. So, if you're calling a plumber to fix a leaky tap, the trick is to get your money's worth by getting them to do other little jobs while they are there. 

The Small Plumbing Fixes

The smaller services available from plumbers that you can get done in one fell swoop are:

Hot water system maintenance – change out the sacrificial anode, replace seals and valves. This will keep your hot water system active and effective for longer.

Tap and toilet maintenance – replace seals which keep water out of your bathroom and in your toilet. These need to be replaced periodically anyway. If they fail, you’ll be looking at an emergency call out fee!

Replace Flexihoses – flexihoses should be replaced every five years because they are prone to bursting, causing extensive flooding.

Perform routine drainage maintenance – keeping your drains clear and well maintained will not only increase their longevity but will also mean they are ready for the next major weather event.

Change water filters –  change water filters every six months to ensure water purity.

Check gutters – gutter checks are recommended after autumn to clear debris from both the gutters themselves and downpipes, and to ensure they’re in working order

Change your tapware to comply with the new WaterMark standards – the National Code of Plumbing has been updated to mandate that only products with the lead-free watermark will be authorised for drinking water pipes from May 1st, 2026, onwards. It may be time to change yours over.

Check plumbed in fridge seals – a fridge seal keeps the warmth out and the cold in, so ensuring it is in good working order is essential for energy efficiency and food safety.

Check dishwasher installation and drainage – having your dishwasher correctly installed the first time will save you from unnecessary stress, prevent water damage, and avoid costly repairs down the track.

Avoid Costly Plumbing Emergencies

Most of these jobs, if done by a reputable plumber, will only take ten to twenty minutes. With the high call out fee, you’ll be practically throwing money away if you don’t get them to do other small jobs while they are there. Plus, ensuring all of your systems and pipes are up to date will save you from expensive emergencies in the future.

The Benefits of Using Rugs in Open-Plan Living Spaces

As modern homes continue to embrace open-plan living, the role of rugs has become more important than ever. Open spaces offer flexibility, light, and a contemporary aes...

How to Optimise Your Warehouse Layout with Reach Forklifts

Warehouse space is a premium resource, and how you use it can greatly influence operational efficiency. As businesses deal with increasing inventory volumes and tighter...

A Beginner’s Guide to Camping Etiquette and Campsite Rules

Camping is one of the best ways to experience Australia’s natural beauty, whether in a national park, a remote beachside retreat, or a popular caravan park. However, to...

Buying Commercial Property with Your Super

Using your self-managed super fund (SMSF) to buy commercial property can be a savvy long-term move, but it’s not as simple as signing a contract and dipping into your s...

Protecting Your Investment: Benefits of Outdoor Car Covers

Outdoor car storage comes with a tradeoff. It’s convenient and often necessary—but it exposes your vehicle to weather, wildlife, and wear. Whether it’s the family SUV, ...

How to Elevate Your Open House Setup

When it comes to real estate, first impressions are everything. And nowhere is that more important than during an open house. A well-executed setup can mean the differe...