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Home decoration shady, be careful that your money is "hidden rules"
In a recent case, a homeowner in Hucheng entrusted a decoration company with renovating their newly purchased house, which was over 100 square meters. The total renovation cost reached 200,000 yuan. However, after the work was completed, the owner invited professionals to inspect the project and discovered that at least 80,000 yuan had been hidden through various "unspoken rules" within the industry.
The issue of hidden charges and kickbacks is not uncommon in the home improvement sector. Many homeowners find themselves caught in a web of backdoor deals between contractors, suppliers, and designers. These practices often go unnoticed due to lack of awareness or oversight.
A recent investigation revealed that rebates are rampant in the home improvement industry, forming a tight-knit "interest chain." For example, a decorative supermarket in Hucheng recently faced an unusual situation when a local painter approached them demanding a 20% rebate on paint purchases. According to the painter, this was a common practice in the industry, where building materials stores were expected to offer some form of "benefit" to workers involved in the renovation.
However, the supermarket manager denied the request, explaining that their business model was transparent and did not include any rebates. Despite this, the painter insisted and even threatened to report the store to the owner. The next day, the owner indeed returned the goods, claiming the paint was unsuitable for the renovation. After reviewing the evidence, the store finally gave in and provided the refund.
According to the manager, such incidents occur frequently. Painters, woodworkers, and tilers often demand rebates ranging from 10% to 30%, depending on the product. This has become a widespread problem, especially in areas like Huzhou, where these practices are more common than in cities like Shanghai.
Inside the industry, skilled workers like tile installers have become highly sought after. Their expertise allows them to command high pay, sometimes even exceeding the income of white-collar workers. A senior tiler from Nanxun shared his experience, revealing that the practice of taking rebates has existed for decades. In the 1990s, some ceramic dealers would give small gifts or favors to workers who helped promote their products. Over time, this evolved into a structured system where workers could receive significant kickbacks.
This cycle of hidden fees ultimately falls on the homeowners. Many are unaware of these practices and end up paying extra without realizing it. As a result, trust between all parties—homeowners, contractors, and suppliers—has eroded, leading to disputes, delays, and poor-quality work.
Consumer protection reports show that complaints in the home improvement industry are increasing. Issues range from mismatched deliveries and false advertising to substandard materials and unexplained price markups. The lack of transparency in pricing and sales practices further fuels these problems.
To address these issues, the industry needs stronger regulation and greater self-discipline. Consumers must be better informed, and businesses should operate with integrity. Only then can the home improvement sector regain its reputation and ensure fair treatment for all involved.