Let down by tradesman - need advice

[sobeitjedi]

Hi.

Hope someone can help.

I've used a plumber found on MyBuilder for about 2 years - he's installed my boiler and done a number of other smaller jobs for me and has been very reliable.

Recently, I asked if he could remove a single radiator in the lounge, then come back in a few weeks (after the lounge had been painted) to install a double radiator. The single radiator was removed and I paid him in full so he could source the double radiator.

It's now about a month later and my phone calls and texts aren't being replied to. I've only had one message from him to say he's been ripped off on a big job and has no money to buy my radiator at the moment. He's said he'll call me next week, etc, but never calls and is not responding to my messages.

What can I do? I need the radiator as it's getting colder and I have a 2 year old and a pregnant wife who is due very soon. I need the radiator.

Any advice appreciated.

 

[hazetimesfive]

something very wrong if he cant find the cash to buy a radiator, they are not very expensive at all.

its always a problem to pay people in full before work has been completed.

remove radiator - one job one payment

install double radiator - second job second payment

unless its a very high value job with lots of outlay then any tradesman who requires money up front is not worth their salt and shouldn't be used.

I would die of shame if I had to ask for 60 pounds up front to buy a radiator.

edit***

what sort of money have you paid him already?

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

Unfortunately you have paid in full, you could if you wanted go to Citizen advice or Trading Standards. Do MyBuilder have a complaints procedure of any kind?

Anyway, that will all take time, best option would be to buy a new rad and employ a different plumber to fit it and ask the other plumber to reimburse you, when he has money again (however unlikely that is).

 

[sobeitjedi]

I think the total job inc parts and two call outs was £220.

Looks like I'd best find another plumber, but with money being tight, I am loathe to pay out again.

 

[footprints]

How big was the rad, if his work was ok, cheapest solution would be buy a rad and he fits it his labour has been paid for and he will only need to shell out on fuel to get to you!
Tell him he can pay you back later, well we know that ain't going to happen, but who knows you could still take him to the small claims court at a later date if you feel so inclined.

Or here's a thought do you need any other small jobs like changing a tap or rad valve he can do that and call it quits.