conservatories.is this the work of con men?

[insurance]

my neighbour wants to have fitted to the back of her house a full length conservatorie.when the salesman came out he said she would not need planning permission.they agreed on a price and she gave him a cheque for �400 deposit the rest to be paid in stages.she phoned the local council today and because she has a large garage next to the house she would need permission as they would both be over 70 cubic meters.she has phoned the company back and they said sorry they would send a surveyer out in 2 weeks but could she give them another �3000 to start the ball rolling.if she didnt get permission they would give it back.

[buildersmate]

I don't know why you have to ask this question - you and she KNOW the answer to this.

[landscaper2]

How many times!! No reputable company would ask for this amount 'to get the ball rolling'. Ask for the deposit back and send them on their way. Take some more time, get three quotes, look at previous work, talk to their clients, decide who you want, but be prepared to pay more. People spend more time choosing a �700 TV than a �7000 house improvement!

[insurance]

thanks for your replys I would not give anyone any money,but my neighbour is a very trusting person and she needed to see what other people thought.she has phoned the company today cancelled the order and the cheque.