Workmen

merrydance

Hi just wondering what other people would do/think in my position. We got 3 quotes for a fence to be mended (fence ok but need 2 new posts for fence to be slotted back in.) over a month ago. Received the quotes back decided to go with the cheapest (they have also a good reputation in the area where I live.) Thought it could be done for my daughter's 32nd birthday as we had a garden party and the gate cannot be opened, this was on the 23rd May. No chance, phoned the contractor -no answer. Sent an email and he replied saying it could be done during the week commencing 1st June. No show or any contact. Can I go with someone else or am I in a contract with him. Also why don't tradesmen ever communicate? Drives me nuts!

Thanks

Guest101

Well have you paid him and / or signed anything?

ognum

Phone him, leave a message if not answering asking what the situation is, say you really need it done, does ha have time.

merrydance

Have not paid or signed anything. Sent an email saying we want him to do the job. Just wondering if it is normal behaviour in the fencing world to act like this?

princeofpounds

Many trades are like this. Sometimes it's just because they genuinely have backlog. It annoying, sure.

You aren't in a contract as there has been no 'consideration' (I.e. Something of value) passed between you, at least as far as you have described it. So you can find an alternative if you like.

G_M

Drives me mad. Trying to get a contractor out to quote can be a struggle. Then you have to chase to get the quote sent in. And then again to get the job done.

Once you've found a reliable guy (whether plumber, gas, roofing whatever) keep them sweet - cheap bottle of plonk at xmas works wonders!

In your position? Get someone else in to quote. If the first guy calls back to arrange the work before you fins a new guy, great. If not, go with new guy.

skivenov

DIY it. Postcrete is amazing stuff.

moneyistooshorttomention

If he's let you down (which he has) then that equals you are entitled to let him down. It works both ways.

merrydance

I've sent another email earlier on in the week and heard nothing back, I will give him a couple mroe days before I contact quote number 2 (hopefully he will turn up!). I am sorely tempted to leave negative feedback on the website that rates his company among others. Do you think this is a fair thing to do?

Hoploz

It sounds like he doesn't fancy the job. On to the next person, to start all over again! Although if you already have other quotes then try the next on the list price-wise and you're half way there

merrydance

Yes I wish he would have told me a lot sooner. What a waste of time.