To worry I am being fleeced?

[ScarlettSahara]

Previous plumber semi-retired & difficult to get hold of. Used to charge for labour & parts but no call-out fee.
Last year after checking reviews on local website (only 14 but all good),
called new plumber since we had no hot water or heating. He did not come for 2 or 3 days but sorted out a new valve. Seemed to fix things but recall thinking he was expensive. However since in the past have had people who clearly did not have a clue decided to call out again.

This time boiler is staying on but not switching off so we either have a greenhouse or switch off & have a freezer. I called same plumber and after some delay he came out. This time he had an assistant. They told me that since boiler switched off when room thermostat turned down they could find no fault. Plumber lives locally & was working on a building site in neighbouring village so only about 10 mins away and was here only 20 to 30 minutes. He told me to call if further problems and let him know more information.
Now I have received a bill for £72! I do believe in paying people properly but I really feel he is getting me to pay for his new assistant. I guess I should have checked if there would be a call-out charge in advance and I can’t remember if there was a call-out charge last time but I don’t think there was so I would really like to know what does anyone else think especially if you are a plumber or have a plumbing partner. Is this charge reasonable?

I haven’t queried the bill yet. I was considering asking him if he might have made a mistake since he was here for a short time and the problem was not fixed.

[ScarlettSahara]

Posted here for traffic! Any mumsnetters taking a moment out of Christmas preparations, advice would be much appreciated , Thanks

[Caroelle]

I would query the amount, it seems a lot for a short visit. But otherwise it is reasonable to charge for his time.