I've had some extensive renovations done to my place and paid a premium for design services and project management. The design element was non-existent as was the project management. The firm I used is of good repute and were recommended to me. I do not have an issue with the quality of work - the standard is high - but the specification process was slack and certain key details were not explained to me (such as disconnecting my bathroom radiator from the central heating and putting a stand-alone electric radiator in its place).
I signed a contract with works specified but the spec is silent on the areas where I say A and the builder says B. I did have a friend with me during the specification process and he happens to be a chartered surveyor who is used to court action in a professional capacity.
I asked the builder to tell me which mediation service he uses and he stated that they don't and then outlined that he would sue me through the small claims court if I refused to pay. I cannot risk this as my job requires me to have a squeaky clean record and so I am paying the builder but want to know if I can sue him for damages and if so on what grounds?
I'm happy to pay legal fees up to about £250 for advice but I don't know which type of legal firm I should go to.
Any thoughts or recommendations?
Thank you