What can we do?

OutofTime

Hello,

We are currently having windows replaced in our house, work should have commenced over a week ago, but was only started on Friday. Today, Monday, and work has come to a halt again, as there are no workmen available to complete task. We don't know when job will be complete. My partner and I have had to take time of work. I am a contractor so don't get paid for time off. What rights do I have here. We have not been treated very well by this company.

Can anyone offer any advice, views or thoughts on this matter?

Kind Regards

Outoftime

Takoda

I don't think you can do anything - builders are a law unto themselves!

augustsmummy

Are you using a window company or private contractors? I suppose all you can do is ring head office and complain that the work has not yet been completed, and that you need to know exactly when work will recommence and be completed.
You may not get anywhere, but if it is a big company you could try to lodge a complaint once work is completed, stating you are not satisfied, and that you were left out of pocket.
The reason I say you might not get anywhere is we had a problem when Coral fitted our windows, their workmen ruined our carpet. We were told by the workmen to with hold the amount it cost for the carpet from our payment until it was cleaned / replaced by Coral.
After them "cleaning" it and it looking no better, and lengthy phone calls to them complaining, we ended up paying the full amount, and still needing to replace our carpet.
Good luck, I hope you get the windows sorted soon, without loosing too much money.

OutofTime

Many thanks for replying.

I am so sorry to read about your experience, I hope that the end result was worth the struggle;- You should have withheld payment, and ensured carpet was replaced, however it is difficult, and it is easier said that done.

Our windows are being replaced by a fairly large company, who promised so much yet failed to deliver. It is so hit and miss with getting any building work done these days, surprisingly even in a recession. You'd think that this company would be glad of the work. You'd think we'd get this job done well. - NO!

We still owe about 12% of total cost, I think we will see what happens, before any further money is paid.

I am determined to stand my ground here.

Many thanks again for your reply, think we should name and shame these companies!

Kind regards

OutofTime