While you would generally expect a builder to complete work on your property to an agreed and satisfactory standard, within a reasonable timeframe, unfortunately some builders do not always follow through. They may not carry out the work to the agreed standard, continuously delay the project, or even abandon it altogether, leaving you with significant financial losses and stress. This blog will facilitate as a guide informing you of what to do if a builder does not complete a job on your property.
Speak to the builder
The first thing you should do is try to settle the issue with the builder directly, as there may be a legitimate reason why they abandoned the project on your property. It’s important to have an open and transparent conversation with them to understand the reasons why they left the work unfinished, as it may even be something as simple as being unwell. You should then come to a mutual agreement on a way forward, even giving the builder a deadline if necessary. However, not every instance is that simple, as sometimes the builder will have just taken their tools and left completely, leaving work on your property unfinished. In that case, the rest of the blog will explain the next steps you should take.
Collate any documentation and correspondence
This will help to provide evidence and a timeline of what happened, examples being:
Look over the contract
The contract signed between you and the builder will often contain important details about any express rights you possess, including deadlines for the project, payment schedules, what work is needed to be done, and so on. If there was no written agreement, the terms of that contract will often be established by piecing together your respective intentions through correspondence. You may also have statutory rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which states that a tradesperson must supply a service to a consumer with ‘reasonable care and skill’ and within a ‘reasonable timeframe’, otherwise you may be entitled to asking for a reduction in cost or even a full refund.
Seek legal advice
After you have collated all your documentation and correspondence and looked over your contract to establish the agreed terms, it is then important to seek legal advice on the next steps. After reviewing the information ourselves, we will be able to provide advice on what to do next. It may not always have to resort to Court proceedings, as we can often first discuss the potential of using negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation.
Summerfield Browne Solicitors can help you with your building matters. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us for assistance or advice.
