What Are My Rights If My Builder Doesn’t Finish the Job?
When building or renovation work goes sideways, such as unfinished rooms, shoddy finishes, or surprise invoices, it’s stressful and expensive. The good news is that UK consumer law gives you clear protections, and there are practical steps to get things back on track before you even think about court.
Here is a guide so you are aware of when you need to bring in the team at Caversham Solicitors’ litigation department.
Your Core Rights If a Builder Doesn’t Finish the Job
If you hired a builder for work on your home, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 states that services must be carried out with reasonable care and skill. In other words, to a professional standard.
If timing wasn’t agreed, they must do the work within a reasonable timeframe and if no firm price was set, you only have to pay a reasonable price.
Where goods are supplied and installed, for example, fitted units or a boiler, installation must be done correctly and safely. If it isn’t, you can ask for it to be put right or seek a price reduction.
Common Problems & How to Solve Them
An Unfinished Job or the Workmanship is Poor
Citizens Advice recommends asking for a repair or a price reduction where standards aren’t met. Start by making a snag list with photos, dates, and what still needs doing. Then, write to the builder, both email and recorded letter, giving a short, fair deadline to return and fix things. Keep it factual and polite as you’re creating evidence.
They’re Not Doing What Was Agreed
Look back at your contract, quote, drawings, and any messages that form part of the agreement as information a trader gives you can become binding. Again, set a clear deadline to rectify the agreed upon work.
The Job is Taking Too Long
If no completion date was set, the law implies “reasonable time”. A short, final deadline in writing should set a reasonable goal for your builder. If that fails, you can move to formal complaint routes.
They’re Charging More Than Expected
Where there’s no fixed price, only a reasonable price is payable. Variations should be agreed in writing before the work is done, so there are no surprises.
Something Was Installed Incorrectly
Ask for a free fix within a reasonable timeframe; if refused or delayed, you can seek a price reduction or claim for the cost of having another professional put it right.
You Paid By Card
If you used a credit card for any single item or service between £100 and £30,000, you may have Section 75 protection and your card provider can be jointly liable. Debit cards may allow a chargeback. Tell your card provider early and keep copies of your complaint letters.
Seek Advice From Litigation Solicitors
Don’t let unfinished or sub-standard work drain more time and money. Speak to Caversham Solicitors for clear, practical next steps, whether that’s a tightly worded pre-action letter, targeted mediation, or issuing proceedings when it really is the best route.
Our process involves a rapid case review where we’ll assess your contract, quotes, messages, and photos, then outline your strongest options and likely outcomes.
We will then create an action plan and transparent fee discussion before anything is filed.
Take the first step today by sharing a brief summary of what’s happened and your ideal outcome via our Contact Us page.
