Regular poster but Ive name changed for this...
I started a simple rear extension about 3 months ago, no knocking through just a box at the back. Signed a contract with what I thought was a well regarded local builder. Also agreed a fortnightly payment plan that was to be aligned with work completed. The total was about £100k (includes a decorated finish to extension, a new patio and some decorating and tiling in the house as well), Ive paid about £45k to date.
Started off well but then we had a few issues crop up. Nothing very serious, some materials had to be sent back as they weren't as described, and a small change to the design. A days extra work max, but this did slow the pace down as all the trades needed rearranging which I appreciate was extra work for them. But the payment demands kept coming despite the work really falling behind with long periods of no one on site.
Paid the last invoice on the condition that the work caught up again before the next one. Well it didnt catch up, and I got a lot of aggressive demands for the next invoice and a halt to all the work until I pay up. I refused to pay, as I also realised that the last work that was done was not done to how the architect plans specified and needs putting right.
Builders just completely ignoring this, saying they cant do anymore until they get more money. Ive taken advice from a builder friend and the architect who both said Im about even with what Ive paid and whats been done, except for the bits that werent done right - the general consensus was not to pay anymore. Although I did offer a half payment to get them back to work, but they have refused this and done nothing for nearly a month now.
Builder is also refusing to acknowledge anything has been done wrong, and refusing to update the payment plan or agree to get back on schedule. Seem to just want a regular income regardless of what they do or how much they do. My guess is I pay until the full amount is paid, and then they demand more to finish, at which point I have no leverage as have paid it all.
Im not sure what to do next. Given what has been done has not followed the plans, and they are refusing to fix it, I think I could justify terminating the contract. Then look for another builder to take it on. I have a foundation, unfinished walls and floor and half a roof and that's it! Not water tight or secure.
Has anyone done anything like that before, was it a nightmare? Feels like a no win situation 😢