Tradesman Won't Return Money!

[DorindaJ]

Tradesman agreed to do some work, took £70 in part payment of work/for materials etc. Then he didn't turn up as agreed on 2 separate times. I told him to return money. He acknowledge he owes me the money, but says he'll return it 'when he is ready'

Obviously I would like my money back straight away. What can I do?

I have his name and address.

Please help, financially, I cannot afford to let it go.

You first have to give him the choice of doing it in a reasonable time. If he doesn't, you can ask for a full refund. Then make a formal complaint in writing. After that, see if your bank/credit card provider will refund the money. If not, complain to the Consumer Ombudsman.

Thank you.

Send him a letter of intent and then start the small claims process

www.gov.uk/make-court-claim-for-money/overview

Sorry, that posted before I finished

NEVER give any tradesman money up front (I speak from experience, a very bad loft conversion). It was an absolute nightmare.

DP is a tradesperson and never takes payment until the work is completed and the customer is completely happy, no matter what equipment he has supplied or hours he's worked. And even then, everything comes with a year's guarantee (and he often extends that, especially if for an elderly or vulnerable person).

Agree with OurBlanche - Letter of Intent followed by Small Claims Court action if he doesn't respond to you. Good Luck!

Thank you. I now have a plan of action. I have learnt a lesson.