Before I comment about the contractor, I would like to ask Babygal23 a question: Did the contractor gave you a proper bill of quantities (quotation) and contract by stating what materials/construction method/design to be used? I will consider that as a must to protect "The Owner" and "The Contractor" from controversial issue. Usually "The Client" will require "The Contractor" to state it with a written note either formal or informal but not verbally to protect both parties.

Let me have a very simple example for you (Babygal23);

It's written in quotation: to supply and install plaster ceiling board at the living room. (However it does not state 9mm thk ceiling board or 12mm thk ceiling board -it makes alot of differences in terms of price and quality! conflict usually will occurs in this circumstance)

Prior to the confirmation of the awning design with a written note (catalog, sketches and endorsement from both parties), you could have avoided that.

In the case, "The Contractor" is obviously guilty for all the issues but personally I think Babygal23 is too kind to "The Contractor" rendering "The Contractor" to take advantage on your flexibility.

Yes i think accommodate with REASONABLE issues will be tolerable but not to "wrongly quote" and "the awning count not be done" these kind of issues. You have the right to NOT TO PAY "The Contractor" as what has been written in contract will be the final price and you have the right to ask "The Contractor" to rectify every defects within the liability period of 2 years

Besides, a pre-drafted schedule should be simulated by "The Contractor" to determine the exact work scopes and project duration. This scheme is meant to protect both parties eg. "The Owner" has the right to penalty "The Contractor" for extension of time (Project duration)

I know you (Babygal23) would like to be flexible to "The Contractor" but it's always recommended not to due to most of "The Contractor" will "take opportunity" to generate more income that will cause problems to you.

Anyway, just my advice for you as a person in the industry and I have no intention to "lecture or offend" you but you are partially responsible for the incidents

This post has been edited by 4n5 Workshop: May 1 2010, 03:27 PM