Problem with bi-fold door order - who's at fault?

monkey_wrench

This question relates to a problem we have encountered during building an extension. I ordered a number of timber windows and bi-fold doors at the start of the year. The requirements were explained to a sales rep on a visit to the house and I provided the measurements for the openings. Things have gone badly wrong as the 5m bi-fold doors open the wrong way (master door on the left rather than the right).

There was a sign-off document that I signed to place the order confirming sizes, finishes and materials plus the typical window design pictures. I guess in good faith I assumed the door was designed according to my requirements set out at my meeting with the sales rep. I've ended up with the opposite and wonder where I stand with this. I was meticulous in checking everything except the door opening pattern! That said it is not a very clear document for a layman who does not buy windows everyday.

Any advice much appreciated. The supplier seems to be reluctant to return my calls today. They've been a nightmare from the start by delaying delivery and just when I got the doors and thought it was all over.....

Thanks.

Matt

Oli.s

What does the sign off document say about the position of the door?

suisidevw

Sounds like you didn't specify the door opening, or actually signed off the opening that you have received. If I was the supplier/salesperson, I'd say tough luck tbh.

monkey_wrench

The sign-off document shows a diagram of the door but does not specify whether it is the inside or outside view. Depending on which way you look at it gives you the best or worst outcome!

I must admit the document was signed in good faith that the salesman had drawn the door to our requirements.

This does not sound promising! Thanks anyway.

Matt

keystone

monkey_wrench wrote: »

The sign-off document shows a diagram of the door but does not specify whether it is the inside or outside view. Depending on which way you look at it gives you the best or worst outcome!

If the paperwork is equivocal then I think you might have a case. Statements that will come from the company along the lines are "the drawings are always looking inside out (or outside in depending)" would seem unreasonable if a) the drawings don't say so and b) the salesman neglected to tell you. The fitters would have fitted it as the factory supplied it. If the salesman drew it wrong or the factory misnterpreted the drawing thats down to the company. I'd pursue it. You have nothing to lose but be prepared for a fight.

Cheers

ic

As part of that fight, do you have legal cover on your house insurance, might come in handy at some point - perhaps even talk to them now for advice.

blackshirtuk

Normally drawings of windows/doors are from the perspective of outside looking in.

This should have been explained when asked to sign the docs.