Not completing agreements in missives

davidmcn

Sporticus123 wrote: »

One of the windows is too large and if its to be replaced then some of the roof needs reinstating. This is where a large part of the cost is coming from. Theres 5 velux windows in total. Plus architect fees.
I dont know where the 10k figure came from or how it was agreed.

Bottom line is the first quote was £30k. Hes worried it could cost more. He has £20k in the bank but if he goes ahead with the work he will have nothing left to live on and be in debt to the builders for any balance over that.
Im really looking for suggestion as to what his options are and penalties he could face, bearing in mind he's 67 years old.
Im angry that hes worked since he was 15 for that money he has, not hes only retired for 2 years and could lose it all and be left with nothing.

Has there been any pressure from the buyers to get the work done? Often retentions are for work requested by lenders, but then "forgotten" about after the event. If the windows have survived over 11 years without any objection then why be concerned now about replacing them? (is everyone sure that the windows were replaced after the building was listed?) The buyers might just be prepared to take the £10k and bear the risk themselves, rather than all the trouble and (potential) cost of replacing them.

If they do say they intend to carry out the work then your father may need a discussion with them about how little cash he has and whether they really want to go ahead.