Test Information Heading
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Quotations
The best way is for one of our staff to see the item, and assess the time required to do the job. There may be options to discuss, including the expected finished result. Plating and repair is labour intensive (material cost is low in comparison) and quoting on an unseen item is difficult. Estimates given over the phone are usually quoted within a price range.
All quotations are given in writing on our standard forms. The docket number is used as a reference to identify the job. All items are photographed on receipt and on completion.
Where it is impractical to bring the items in, SEP will send out their courier to pick the item up, and be bought to the premises for a quotation. Alternatively, photos may be sent by email.
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Guarantees
All plating done by the company (or its sub-contractors) are guaranteed against faulty workmanship and materials for a period of 1 year from date of completion, during which time the company will repair defects which appear under proper use.
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Security of Items
All items are stored on the company’s premises. These are protected out of hours by a monitored surveillance system. Items of very high worth may be stored away from the premises. In this case, it would be discussed with the customer.
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Payment Methods
Sterling Electro Plating will accept cheques, major credit cards or cash. Approved customers may establish a 30 day credit account. The company does not normally require a deposit for work to start for work valued at less than $1500.00.
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Transport
Items can be picked up and delivered by Sterling Electro Plating. This can apply to anywhere in Australia. The cost is charged to the customer if the work is not to be done. Pickups/ deliveries in the Perth metro area are $25.00 per run.
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Plating Time
Most jobs are done within 6 weeks. In many cases the items are held for a time after plating to check for ‘bleeding’. This applies to kettles etc, where the rolled seams hold moisture. This process must be completed before final polishing and lacquering.
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Value of Plating
The general rule is if the item has less than 40% of its original plating, its value has been reduced.
Plating (and repair work if required) brings the item to its original condition and therefore the value is enhanced. Re-plating never reduces an items value.
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Plating Tips
When not to plate
Solid (sterling) silver is never plated. In many cases, polishing and lacquering may be all that is required. Some metals are impossible or difficult to plate, and this would be made clear when the item is presented for inspection in order to prepare a quotation.
Is plating worth it?
In many cases, the item value is low, but the sentimental value is high. If the item can be plated (and repaired if necessary) the question can only be answered by you, the customer.
