How To Spot False Charges Following Construction Work

When construction work is being carried out within your property, the chances are that you have hired a contractor or team who you believe to be trustworthy. Whether removing a wall from your garden space, helping with a household extension, or replacing brickwork, there are likely plenty of reputable tradespeople within your locality. Despite the reputation of your hired builders, there’s always a chance that they may be disingenuous - and this is where Simon Levy Associates can help out. Read on for some of the tell-tale signs that your contractors may be applying false charges to the bill for your work, and account for our useful tips if you do suspect this to be the case.

Inflated Rates And Unperformed Work

If you have outright hired a contractor to carry out specific tasks for you which they agreed upon, you will have appropriate grounds to raise an issue if they fail to fulfill those stipulations following payment. Often unperformed work will include minor details or features which are hardly noticeable, but even if your hired professional has attempted to cut corners, they still may be breaching a contract. On the other hand, if a builder or team of contractors have increased their rates for work you didn’t ask for, or additions you never requested, you may not be legally required to pay for it. If you are being charged a premium for a service you agreed a price on, and this is verified in writing, you will almost certainly not be legally required to pay extra.

Noticeable Issues

Not only will unwanted additions or inflated rates give you cause for concern, but work which has not been completed to a satisfactory standard may also require the help of an experienced building surveying company. Noticeable problems may include a poor finish to brickwork, or rushed and uneven tiling. Simon Levy Associates are qualified to undertake the necessary examination of a building structure, using specialist surveying equipment and a breadth of knowledge. As practicing members of the Academy of Experts since 1996, we can even be commissioned as expert witnesses for construction dispute resolution.

Equipment Or Materials

Another way in which contractors may attempt to exhibit false charges, is by charging for equipment or materials which aren’t used, despite being listed within their costs. It can be difficult to determine whether this has been the case if you aren’t at the site 24/7, but we can use our industry nause to help out. Our construction dispute consultants can potentially save you time and money, condensing the often-lengthy legal process, and sharing honest, transparent feedback. Searching for ‘surveyors Barnet’? Simon Levy Associates are a highly competent and experienced building surveying company, based in Borehamwood and serving the surrounding area. Over three decades of experience places us among the longest-serving professionals within the vicinity, and our impartial advice has helped hundreds of customers over the years. Contact us today for further information on our varied services, available in locations as varied as in Barnet, Watford and South East England.