Labour charges

Q. I do vehicle repairs and I would appreciate some guidance on how I calculate my charges for labour. At times, I get old cars to repair whilst at times I get fairly new and expensive cars to repair.

(Query published as received)

A. You should set your labour charges according to the general market rate for the services you render which will include the quality of your service (professionalism), the efficiency of your service, the intricacy of your work, the expenses you incur and the other basic factors that usually affect the pricing structure. Therefore, the charge for service levied for servicing an expensive car in relation to an old vehicle could be higher when influenced by these factors.

As Muslims, we should keep in mind that the character and advice of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) exhort us to consider one more factor in pricing; and this is to be a well wisher for the consumer. Well wishing and fairness should be your guide in setting prices and through this, you will earn the personal Dua of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) which comprise of words to this effect : “May Allah shower his mercy upon the one who is lenient to the consumer” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

And Allah Knows Best

Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed

Confirmation:
Mufti Ebrahim Desai

Fatwa Department
Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)
Council of Muslim Theologians
223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban
Tel : +27 (0) 31 2077099
Fax : +27(0) 31 2074163
Website : www.jamiat.org.za