Backlogs of work

Be_Happy

Just a word of warning to anyone waiting until we come out of lockdown to begin arranging to have work done in their house.

I have been planning to get water heating system changed - electric boiler to indirect water heaters.  Workmen aren't allowed inside just now unless for essential repairs and maintenance - changes here in Scotland on 26 April, hopefully.   Phoned around plumbers.  First company had backlog of 8 months work on accepted estimates waiting to start.  Another one said it would be end of July before he could even come to estimate.  

Thought I had nothing to do but phone, get estimates and work could start soon.   Not sure if it's the same in other trades.

twopenny

Yep it is.

I also need a plumber and knew there'd be a lead time but 2 immediately said I can't do it until October. 6 more didn't bother to send quote. I've been waiting 2yrs for one due to come repeatedly and who then ditched me.

One even said I don't like working like this but overwhelmed by people wanting work done.

It's usually around 3 mts wait.

Start ringing again on Monday. One said April/May and I would have bitten his hand off if I could get hold of him again. Always out working.

And don't even start on landscaping.

ka7e

Technically I'm still waiting for availability dates from a landscaper who did me a quote for a patio last June. I actually managed to get someone else to do it cheaper in December and then booked the same firm in Jan for fencing. They've been back today to install a potting shed. I assume it's been cheaper to get the work done over the winter and although the garden had been pretty churned up, it's recovering in time for the summer. Luckily I have been able to offer separate access to the garden, power and water supply and loo. so all the work has been contact-free.

FreeBear

Be_Happy said: Thought I had nothing to do but phone, get estimates and work could start soon.   Not sure if it's the same in other trades.

I've been trying to get some quotes for some major external works. No real problem getting people in to look at what needs doing. Of the 4/5 that have been round, one reasonable quote, and one outlandish one... Neither are able to start work until August. Building trades are pretty well booked for most of the year (or at least the good ones are).