Do I ask for a refund?

[feelinguseless101]

Several weeks ago (prior to advice on social distancing etc) we got quotes for some fairly essential external home maintenance. We picked a quote and the guy was due to start on 16th but due to issues in his supply chain he couldn't, he was then going to start Friday but due to some of his staff self isolating, he couldn't.

We paid a deposit, which was for materials. He now can't do the work due to the current situation and it's unclear when he will be able to. By the time the work can be done it's likely that it'll be a bigger job and the deposit/ materials will have changed.

So do we ask for, and could I reasonably expect, a deposit?

I would.

I would too - but be prepared for the strong likelihood that the cash has been spent already either on the materials or supporting his day to day living expenses like food/rent. and won't be available to refund you.

If that is the case, you're better off rearranging amicably. You're going to struggle getting another contractor at the moment anyway. If he has bought the materials already I would ask for them and call it quits.