If you’ve hired a contractor to take on a job for you, it can be incredibly frustrating if they don’t deliver on their promises. Whether they’ve left halfway through the job or simply failed to complete it to the standard agreed upon, it’s important to know what to do next.
Here are some steps to take if your contractor hasn’t finished the job in the UK:
1. Review your contract
The first step is to review your contract. If you’ve signed a formal agreement with the contractor, it should outline what they’ve agreed to do and what your responsibilities are. Check the terms and conditions, as well as any deadlines that were agreed upon. This will help you determine if the contractor has breached their obligations.
2. Communicate with the contractor
The best thing to do is to communicate openly and honestly with the contractor. Find out if there are any reasons why they haven’t been able to complete the job. It may be that they’ve hit unforeseen problems and need extra time, or they may need additional resources to complete the job. Make sure you keep detailed records of any conversations you have with the contractor, including emails and phone calls.
3. Put your concerns in writing
If you’ve spoken to the contractor and you’re still not satisfied, it’s time to put your concerns in writing. Send an email or letter outlining the issues you’ve faced and what you expect the contractor to do to rectify the situation. Be clear about any deadlines you need the work completed by. Make sure you keep a copy of any written communication you send to the contractor.
4. Seek legal advice
If the contractor is unresponsive or unwilling to cooperate, it may be time to seek legal advice. You may be able to take legal action against the contractor if they’ve breached their contract or if they’ve failed to deliver on their promises. A solicitor can help you understand your legal options and advise you on the best course of action.
5. Consider going to arbitration
If you don’t want to take legal action, another option is to go to arbitration. This is a process where an independent arbitrator makes a binding decision on the dispute. It can be quicker and less expensive than going to court. However, it’s important to note that both parties need to agree to go to arbitration.
In conclusion, if you’ve hired a contractor in the UK and they haven’t finished the job, it’s important to take action. Review your contract, communicate with the contractor, put your concerns in writing, seek legal advice, and consider going to arbitration. Remember to keep detailed records throughout the process. By taking these steps, you’ll be able to protect your interests and ensure that the job is completed to your satisfaction.