Mark Ing - Senior Regional Officer offered the following tips
1) When organising a quote, avoid estimating the volume of goods over the phone yourself, instead ask if the removalist can visit your home and view the goods in person.
2) Do your homework to help eliminate surprises. Don’t forget to ask questions such as:
- What is included in the price and what is not, for example packing and unpacking, extra staff?
- Is insurance included? What does it cover and who pays for what in the event of damage or loss?
- If there is any delay, are there extra costs for overnight storage, and who pays for them?
3) We also recommend consumers compile a detailed inventory, including photographic or video evidence, of all items included in the move to guard against loss and damage
"Under the Australian Consumer Law, a removalist, like any other trader, is required to exercise due care and skill and deliver services within a reasonable time. As a general rule, no contract can remove a consumer’s rights which, in this case, includes being able to claim compensation for loss/damage to goods" said Ing
For more information, contact Consumer Protection by email [email protected] or by phone 1300 30 40 54.
Glenney caught up with Mark Ing from DMIRS - Consumer Protection for further information.