Very quick query (I hope)

[Crusty]

I recently had some medical tests done in a private hospital. I was given a quote at the time of booking and immediately prior to the tests I paid the agreed amount in full. A few weeks later I get an invoice asking for an additional £53.

My gut instinct is to refuse to pay it but can I do that and on what legal grounds? Some aspect of Contract law?

many thanks Crusty

[Ruby]

Re: Very quick query (I hope)

I would contact them and explain to them what you have just said here regarding your understanding of the payment. It could have just been an 'admin error' on their behalf. So many companies these days 'chance their luck' that people will just pay without challenging. Good Luck ....

[bluebottle]

Re: Very quick query (I hope)

An estimate can be more or less than what a trader originally advised. A quotation, on the other hand, is binding on both parties. If the quotation the private hospital gave you was in writing and the word "Quotation" is on the document, they are bound by the figure they originally stated. They cannot ask for more. As Ruby has also said, it may be an "admin error".

[labman]

Re: Very quick query (I hope)

Did you get a receipt?

[Crusty]

Re: Very quick query (I hope)

Rang the hospital and got it sorted. Partial admin error - the additional invoice was for blood tests taken as part of the procedure but which had not been recorded on the day. As a goodwill gesture they waived the fee! Gobsmacked but pleased - many thanks :-)

[labman]

Re: Very quick query (I hope)

Pleased you got it all sorted:beagle:

[Magrew]

Re: Very quick query (I hope)

It's always worth remembering Sydney. "It's good to talk"

Sometimes we can jump to action too quickly. This is a good result, well sorted.

[Ruby]

Re: Very quick query (I hope)

Sometimes its in our nature to imagine the worst case scenario - I am my own worst enemy. I should practice what I preach, lol