Charging VAT on labour

[Polly1958]

My parents had a new gas fire fitted last week,we popped to see them tonight, and I noticed on the bill that the fitter had charged 20% VAT on top of the labour cost.Is this right? I thought VAT was just on goods.Any thoughts appreciated.

[ChuckFickens]

Goods and services.

"Standard rate of VAT

If you are registered for VAT, you have to charge VAT at the standard rate on all goods and services you supply,"

http://www.hmrc.gov.u...rates/rates/rates.htm

[Buenchico]

VAT is charged on services, as well as goods.

There are special (lower) rates, or zero rates, for certain services (e.g. for the construction of a new house, or for making property alterations for a disabled person) but the majority of services (e.g. those provided by motor mechanics or gas fitters) are charged at the standard rate.

Chris

[Polly1958]

Thanks Chuck and Chris, I didnt know that.I,m still going to query the bill, as my mum gave him £40.00
when he came to check a fault on their old the fire,which took him half an hour,and he then told mum she needed a replacement fire,yet he's included that job on the invoice. I wish they'd told me thier plans and I would have got them a few quotes first.Parent eh!

[tamborine]

I think a VAT number should be quoted to prove they are VAT registered.