Builder adding 'extras' as we go? What is reasonable?

WoodyMax

Risteard wrote: »

Of course you have to pay for all extras. It is wholly unreasonable and wrong and invalid to believe that these are accepted as part of doing a project. If things are added that weren't priced for initially then of course you must pay for these (and it could be at a higher rate than the initial work as it may now be more awkward etc.).

True, but could also be cheaper seeing as they are there already doing work.

ceredigion

skintandfat wrote: »

OP

It may be helpful to check if the builder has given you information relating to the cooling off period

You should have had a written contract which detailed the cooling off period
If this is not done then the builder cannot enforce ANY invoice, never mind one for extras

Ask him to break down the extra works with more detail - labour and materials.

This may shift the balance of power- he will be shocked, stunned and then nice when he figures he has fluffed up.

Great in theory and no doubt written in an office by people with no real world experience.

Client. We wanted a rad on that wall . It was left off the drawing sorry
Builder. Now you tell me, we will have to cut up the concrete floor to do that
Client. How much?
Builder. £500, I will document it for you. You now have a 14 day cooling of time, so we are on stop for a fortnight.

Client posts on here saying that their building project is taking for ever.

PhilE

If your quote was just for labor, then the cost of materials is to be expected.

If it were for labor and materials, then going over slightly with materials may still be ok. By slightly I mean £30.

If its thousands, then you are getting chronically conned and need to take action.

Jackmydad

"Extras" are always contentious. I know three or four builders socially, and they all dislike charging for them, but they have to as they are in business to make money. It comes up in conversation regularly.
Another thing is that "extras" are always "little" or "while you're here can you just?"
The idea that these extras must be a rip off of some sort simply isn't automatically true in every case.
Speak to the builder calmly. As him to explain what the extras are and what the charges are for.

ceredigion

PhilE wrote: »

If your quote was just for labor, then the cost of materials is to be expected.

If it were for labor and materials, then going over slightly with materials may still be ok. By slightly I mean £30.

If its thousands, then you are getting chronically conned and need to take action.

Sorry don't understand your post

Risteard

Jackmydad wrote: »

"Extras" are always contentious. I know three or four builders socially, and they all dislike charging for them, but they have to as they are in business to make money. It comes up in conversation regularly.
Another thing is that "extras" are always "little" or "while you're here can you just?"
The idea that these extras must be a rip off of some sort simply isn't automatically true in every case.
Speak to the builder calmly. As him to explain what the extras are and what the charges are for.

Had someone recently who "forgot" to ask for a socket outlet in the hallway. When this was to be added they wondered would they have to pay for it.

Of course you will, I replied. If you want an extra socket outlet then you need to pay me for an extra socket outlet.