AIBU to ask for a radiator in the small entry hall? Moody builder.

52 replies

Beingseenisneedy · 16/09/2026 06:47

Hi all, we're having a new heating system put in. New radiators all round, but the builder has missed out an entry hall.
It's a tiny cupboard size room that leads into the kitchen.
Has a small window and three outside walls.
Do we ask him to add a radiator in this room or just use a plug in to save money and hassle.
Builder has been a nightmare, so don't want to prolong it all and he'll probably be moody and charge a ridiculous amount on top.
All but 2 radiators are in and just needs rebalancing.
Wwyd?
Thanks.

OP posts:

Original poster

Beingseenisneedy · 19/09/2026 11:56

justsayingthat · 18/09/2026 18:35

I had exactly the same issue when we had renovations recently- radiator removed from wall in hallway (also small), and some walls were removed/ layout changed… and radiator not put back in. I was nervous about asking about it, as the plumbing for the other rads had already all been done. However, I had a word with myself and thought ‘I’m not paying thousands of pounds for work that I’m not going to be happy with overall’. We needed that rad in the hallway because its, a) right by the front door, b) where all the damp coats get hung up c) the only heating in the entire hallway/ stairs/ landing area. So, I bit the bullet and told him I wanted the rad out back in. He was a bit huffy, but did it. Luckily, there were nearby heating pipes to connect it to (in adjacent downstairs loo) and we were not at the point where any plastering or decorating had started.
I would say that you need to get him to do it, even if it adds to the cost. You do not want the hassle or cost of using an electric heater long term.

Edited

Thanks. Well done for having the courage to do it. It's frustrating that you pay so much yet they make out they're soing clients a favour.
it's where our coats will be too. Has already been plastered, but he should have put it in as it was on the list.
We are having it done whilst in another city, which doesn't help.

OP posts:

Original poster

Beingseenisneedy · 19/09/2026 12:00

BlueMum16 · 18/09/2026 18:37

I don't understand how or why people pay before they are happy with the work. Materials maybe. But a large amount (50% maybe) should be payable on completion of satisfactory work.

I had building work a while ago. £30k. He didn't even want stage payments. All on completion. Once I was happy with everything. This work when on for about 6 or 7 weeks

Patio was £15k. He wanted payment of materials on delivery and stage payments over two weeks. Fine.

Other trades I've had - kitchen, flooring, decorating is on completion with maybe a 10% deposit.

Show quote history

Lesson learnt for sure. He was great to start with, trusted him as came recommended and does a lot of work locally.

OP posts:

Flip

1 2 3