Profiteering Hits The Roof
In response to a recent article in the Sunday Telegraph Profiteering Hits The Roof
In summary this article highlights the very real risk that our hard earned tax dollars could easily be squandered by rogue insulation traders just out to make a quick buck at the expense of the government and us by always charging the maximum rebate of $1600 no matter how simple or small the job may be....
When the government set the maximum rebate amount at $1600 it was widely accepted by the industry that this rebate was more than adequate to cover the insulation of an average 3 bedroom home.
However that was back in Feb 09 and a lot has changed since then....
1) Firstly our local manufacturers have failed to keep up with demand for insulation which has forced many insulation companies to source their insulation products overseas. Transporting bulky insulation products half way around the world can be a costly exercise and consequently this has been reflected in much higher costs of insulation. Of course the local manufacturers not wanting to miss out on a few extra dollars or maybe having their own increase in material costs to absorb have also increased their prices.
2) Secondly companies looking to expand or even just meet the demand for their services are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain experienced workers. This is putting pressure on employers to pay more than they would before the insulation rebate to obtain and retain their workers.
3) Thirdly the rebate maximum of $1600 was based on covering up to the average 3 bedroom home, however not every home fits in this category and I don't mean just in size but there are factors like; - Large number of down lights
- Ducted Air Conditioning
- Inadequate roof access
- Cathedral Ceilings
- Asbestos in roof
and even the type of insulation used - can have a huge bearing on the cost of insulation.
Whilst there is a real concern in the market that dishonest operators exist and are ripping off the government and our tax dollars not everyone in the industry is painted with the same brush.
If you go with a reputable insulation installer that existed before the rebate (and probably hoping to be around after it) you are more likely to get a fairer insulation assessment. As to these companies their reputation is important…..
And most likely this will fall below the maximum rebate amount of $1600, however if doesn't just ask yourself if I was paying for this directly would I go with this company or at least get a second opinion...
Steps To Insulation Rebate:
1. Assess - Your Eligibility for The Insulation Rebate
2. Review - Guidelines for Obtaining the Insulation Rebate
3. Quotes - Select an Insulation Installer to Quote Your Homes Insulation Needs
4. Book - Once happy with your Insulation Installer simply book your insulation date
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