Contractor fees

[colin1096]

I wondered if anyone can help.

I was left a property by my dad and as the market was low decided to rent it out . The first months rent covered bits of work done on the house, finders fee and safety checks etc .

Then more work needed doing 2 carpets kitchen units and header tank so i gave the estate agents the go ahead to carry the work out via their contractor . I was going to rent the property for 6 months whilst the value went up so the rent wasnt important to me the contractor would be paid from that.

Two weeks ago after a fuse had blown the estate agents stated it needed a full rewire and this would cost me £2000 - £3000. i do not have any money to throw at the house so the tenants have moved out . The estate agents have sent me a bill for £1000 for the work that has been done and i cant pay . I will pay when the house is sold and am going to ask them to sell it for me . They said they need the cheque now.

 

Just wondered if anyone can give advice.

Thanks in advance

[raydetinu]

Ask for the itemised invoice from the contractor. also ask if they have paid the contractor yet ( and check the answer with contractor )

they will no doubt have to add their fee for arranging the work and don't forget VAT will be added no doubt.

 

 

You should of got a quote before the work was done.

 

 

Get a few quotes from electrical contractors to check what's wrong and what needs doing.

[colin1096]

I am aware it needs a full rewire which i cannot afford . The tenants have left as it was deemed unsafe to live there . They just gave me a rough estimate over the phone and i agreed . all i need to know is were i legally stand and can they wait for there money until the house is sold. it could be one month or upto 12 months .

[raydetinu]

usually pay on 30 days, or you could be charged interest.

even if they gave you an estimate you are entitled to see the breakdown and contractors invoice, use as delaying tactic if nothing else ( then query some items and then ask for clarification etc.)

best speak to them and arrange to pay in instalments, or something.