The Guardian newspaper has highlighted what it describes as "ridiculous overcharging" by some plumbing companies for emergency work.

It cites two cases where staff at plumbing companies fail to clarify the full extent of charging when called about emergency work. Both plumbing companies failed to mention a call-out charge or that the prices excluded VAT.

"A bill of £414 for 39 minutes work is ridiculous," said Miles Brignall, writing in the Guardian.

The newspaper has advised its readers with similar problems to contact local trading standards officers where overcharging is suspected.