What standard percentage retained for incomplete job?

[Lusi83]

Have had solar panels fitted today - to get them done for the changes in FIT on Monday ...

Due to have a 4 kw system but only 3kw worth of panels available in time ... so now have a 3kw system up and fitted ...with remaining panels due in max 4 weeks...


What percentage retainer (if any) would be standard in a case like this?

 

[gregers]

isnt a final bill due in 28 days,so tell them your pay full amount when FULL job is completed.

 

[Lusi83]

Contract says balance is due on day of completion ...

 

[gregers]

BUT they havnt completed the job.

 

[Lusi83]

I know.... that's what I thought
I didn't want to go into too much detail cos wanted unbiased opinion...

Basically the job has been done by people (a company) I know well...are friends (although I know one partner much better than the other) ...I know where they live!!!!
They have worked with me - holding a slot so I could get in before the tarriff change -even though I didn't pay the deposit when I should have etc
(because I was trying to get this loan thing but that is now not going to happen in time )
They have been let down by their supplier..
they are very apologetic and have said to just pay what I think...
I would be inclined just to pay it all ...but then think (human nature) I might then get put to the bottom of the pile - so maybe I should hold onto a retainer

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

I don't pretend to know much about solar but it appears they have fitted 75% to date so why not just pay 75%.

 

[Lusi83]

It is more than 75% ...all the wiring is done, the inverter and meter fitted, the rails are ready for the last panels ....etc

Basically it took them 12hrs to do the job...(they did hit another snag so it took longer than anticipated)
Fitting the panels will take them an hour or so ...longest bit will be putting up the scaffolding tower...
I think I'll have to have a really honest chat to the one I know the best...

(I hate stuff like this - why can't anything ever be straight forward!!!!)