Advice sought regarding a work situation

Pursue a claim for what exactly?

You're out of pocket, he's not, I'd be asking for a reasonable amount towards materials cost, say you're waiving the labour as he's not happy but the materials are your property until he pays for them, this is being reasonable, something which goes a long way if disputes ever go to court.

[Bibio]

i'm guessing even if you done a perfect job he would still not pay. let me guess.. middle class with letters after his name?

[Biker Biggles]

Originally Posted by Bibio

i'm guessing even if you done a perfect job he would still not pay. let me guess.. middle class with letters after his name?

U rating forbids stating what letters.

[rowdy]

Originally Posted by Bibio

i'm guessing even if you done a perfect job he would still not pay. let me guess.. middle class with letters after his name?

That is precisely what is putting me off trying to rectify it. And yeh, your fairly close.

Originally Posted by Biker Biggles

U rating forbids stating what letters.

his parents had the foresight to give him a Christian name that can be shortened to sum him up completely.

Put it this way, my wife runs a salon and she told me last night it took the girl that cut his hair nearly an hour and a half cos he kept on saying he wasn't happy with it!

http://www.consumeractiongroup.co.uk...99-Billy-Oh-No!! just one of many similar complaints, installed by professional contractor that can't make it fit perfectly!

[yorkie_chris]

"oh you're the cocksocket who wouldn't pay his bills.... now about that shave, would you like a close one sir?"

Oh boy. A lot of chat but little good advice.

Firstly, have you sought legal advice? No? Then do so. I suggest you start with the citizens advice consumer helpline. Yes, they do advise traders and its free (no brainer). Even if just for a second opinion, do it.

As to the complaint ... forget the customer for a minute. Did you know you are supposed to provide certain paperwork if you agree to a contract in the customers home? This must include the right to cancel. "What does that have to do with this situation?" Well, failure to provide the required info can render the contract void - even after you've completed the work! Its also a criminal offence for failing to provide this and eventually Trading Standards will want to have a word, so get some advice. Contact Trading Standards, they won't crucify you or anything.

So what about this tosser? Yes, he sounds annoying and unreasonable and anal blah blah blah. But for the most important part, he is right. When doing work like this part of your responsibility to the customer is to exercise care and skill. What this means in a situation like this is your professional judgement is as much a part of the job as is your skillful labour. How would a judge see it were this idiot to make a claim?

Well, you've pretty much admitted that you knew the shed was **** from the start so the judge will say you should have warned the customer. So you're at the very least partly liable. But if the shed is inherently defective in its design there's nothing to put right. You don't get paid but you're not liable for rectifying a defective shed.

Caution though. you must be able to show that the shed was defective if you're going to leave the job. So take some photo's or other evidence to support your position. If he later decides to sue and you have nothing but your word, this may not be enough.

Alternatively, take a step back and suggest that a third party assesses the situation (e.g. Legal advisor, building surveyor, Trading Standards etc). If they agree with you then the customer is unlikely to pursue any claim. If they agree with him then you should consider doing something.

Last thing. Do you have builders/business insurance? Is your business incorporated? Yes, its probably a one man small business, but did you know your personal assets could be at risk if this idiot sues you and wins? Yes, that includes the house and car. Get some advice on the best way to protect yourself. Don't just assume that because you intend to run an honest business this will protect you from the risks that are out there.

Hope you can work it out.