How do you deal with builder overcharging?

mikey72

mutley74 wrote: »

ARGH Vent!
Just when i thought things were going to completion in amicable manner and he had agreed to resolve some faults he just made another blunder.
on a kicthen unit he drilled the handle screw holes on wrong side. Then re-drilled them on correct side, and filled in the wrong holes with silicone!
I've not said a word yet, but expect as its his fault he should buy a new unit/door?
but as he is already moaning about the job, and time taken (thats because he only been working a few hrs a day) dont think he will do anything expect moan about his time and costs.

I fit a few kitchens.
That is my worst nightmare (literally)
No hesitation, I would replace the door, at my cost.
That's why you're paying me, and not doing it yourself.

oz0707

mikey72 wrote: »

I fit a few kitchens.
That is my worst nightmare (literally)
No hesitation, I would replace the door, at my cost.
That's why you're paying me, and not doing it yourself.

agreed....

mutley74

mikey72 wrote: »

I fit a few kitchens.
That is my worst nightmare (literally)
No hesitation, I would replace the door, at my cost.
That's why you're paying me, and not doing it yourself.

i told him at the end of the day. Really dont understand, why he thinks filling drill holes with silicone looks okay? I said its not its acceptable, he made a few excuses, and said he will try and get a replacement door. I cant understand why he tried to pull a fast one :eek:

RX-78

To be honest it sounds like you need to get rid of him.....

villabadger

Hold on a minute.....you were complaining about the standard of work a few weeks ago. In post 20, you stated that it was his loss as you had other refurb works to do but.....you're still using him?!!!! You surely should have learnt your lesson with the garage issue - he is taking the p**s because you are inviting him to continue to do so! Don't let him touch the electrics - you may end up with a rebuild not a refurb!

mutley74

villabadger wrote: »

Hold on a minute.....you were complaining about the standard of work a few weeks ago. In post 20, you stated that it was his loss as you had other refurb works to do but.....you're still using him?!!!! You surely should have learnt your lesson with the garage issue - he is taking the p**s because you are inviting him to continue to do so! Don't let him touch the electrics - you may end up with a rebuild not a refurb!

yes you are correct, but unfortunately and due to poor planning on our side , we were in situation of need (all of out stuff was outside under a sheet etc). But after this job is over which has dragged on to over 2 weeks, i doubt i would use him again for any works.

When we discussed final costs today, he actually kept to his word on the costs, but we feel let down by his constant moans and lies.

villabadger

Ok -it can't be very nice when you're under pressure to get in!

Out of interest, has he done all of the work himself or has he bought in specialised trades for electrics etc? Obviously you haven't detailed the full extent of the works but I would be concerned if he's done it all himself, especially when you have had your own concerns. There are without doubt many competent general builders out there but even they would either employ or hire in specialist trades when needed, usually!

darich

mutley74 wrote: »

yes you are correct, but unfortunately and due to poor planning on our side , we were in situation of need (all of out stuff was outside under a sheet etc). But after this job is over which has dragged on to over 2 weeks, i doubt i would use him again for any works.

When we discussed final costs today, he actually kept to his word on the costs, but we feel let down by his constant moans and lies.

The word in bold is quite important.
Try replacing it with "would never" and you'll be a lot better off.

Really - you want this joker out your house as soon as. He's making basic mistakes and trying to paper over them or pass the bill to you.

The sooner he's out the better for you and your wallet.

Well done in confronting him and I hope he doesn't get nasty.

mutley74

we have been waiting for the builders electrician to finish the lights and sockets. he has started the job on monday, but so far failed to turn up on subsequent appointments he has made with us. each time builder tells he is on his way..at 1pm etc! but no one turns up.
spoke to trading standards, who say as we have a "verbal" contract i cant tell him not to come back otherwise i am in breach of contract, and builder can try sue me for outstanding costs. we have piad him 80% of the costs of the job, and to be honest theres only 1/2 day work left. Trading standards said i need to post him a letter and give him 14days to complete job before i can get someone else in to finish rest of!!! What! another 14days of hell!
surely i must have some rights to say i have paid you for work to date, and i owe nothing more, and i will get someone else to complete the rest of the work.....can I???
help welcome.

a 1 week job is now into week 4!