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Is it OK to with hold 10% for 24 months against future problems

Posted by Susanna Alford, on
I am having a wood burner installed that will also heat my water and radiators and cook my food. I have had monumental probems with the installation ranging from water leaks that resulted in me having no electric, no heat and no water for close on 20 hours to my stove failing to obtain presure because it was taken apart and not rebuilt correctly. Installation I was tod would take 4 to 5 days and that was over 2 months ago and still my stove has not been commissioned and not working. When they eventually get it working can I with hold 10% of the bill for 24 months against future problems as they have rendered the stoves warrentee invalid?
sam boswell

sam boswell

Hi, Im not a expert in this field, but it sounds to me that your well within your rights to pay nothing and let them try to claim off you in court, and if what you say is true, the court would rule in your favour. I think this company owes you compensation Regards Sam

Thomas Foster

Hi Susanna, This is really a question for a solicitor rather than a tradesman. It does depend on whether you have any clauses in your contract that allow for withholding payment under certain circumstances (which is unlikely) You have to be careful when withholding payment in any circumstances because by doing so it might actually put you in breach of the contract. You must discuss your concerns directly with contractor and keep a record of all correspondence. (really important to keep the letters and try to have a witness present at face to face meetings) This is a just rough guide and I suggest speaking to the citizens advice who can provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of contract law and your position in this matter. Tom

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