Legal Question in Consumer Law in New Jersey

Contractor doesn't give me quote then charges exorbitant amount for home repair

A/C wasn't working on a Fri afternoon. I called our usual contractor who said cost is $70 to come over and look at problem. I agree. He sends techinician over, who, without prior permission, and adds 2lbs freon to unit. After, he tells me that the unit needed refrigerant. Then gives me bill and I question why freon is $224? He tells me i have to pay but I can talk to his boss about it later. SO I write him a check and sign it saying he serviced the a/c. I call boss Sunday to question price. He offers us $70 off. I am stil not happy and tell him I''m stopping check, which I indeed do. He sues us in small claims. I just came back from court today. In my testimony I referred to Consumer Fraud Act ''deceptive practice'' law (subchapter 10 13:45A-10.3) which says any home improvement over $200 should be preceded by written quote. Judge ruled in favor of plaintiff, saying that consumer fraud act doesn't apply. My question: WHY DOESN''T IT APPLY? Statute clearly says ''Home improvement means remodeling, altering..REPAIRING, etc of RESIDENTIAL..property..AND INCLUDES..REPAIR OF driveways..central heating AND AIR CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT.''

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