[DaveFerguson]

Hi, can anyone tell me what is considered an acceptable delay to a start date?. A member gave me a start date of first week in January. This has now been delayed continuously, the latest date now being 7th March, I am aware of material shortages, Brexit problems and Covid. Covid was the only excuse used for a delay of two weeks. It is very frustrating but we have paid a £1000 deposit for permissions and planning.

[Nickvoc]

Hi @Dave Ferguson - thanks for your question. Think it all depends on the type of work you are having done. I assume building work from your post, but could be wrong? If you tell us a little more about your project, and where you are in the UK, I'll see if I can get you some responses from other Checkatrade members. Thanks!

[DaveFerguson]

@Nickvoc
​​​​​​​Thanks for reply. I am having a dropped kerb, and driveway with block paving. I agreed the quotation on 11th November 2021. I am in Hampshire.

[ChelseaDave]

It's seems you have waited long enough and the excuse quota well used. We all know times have been hard and unpredictable particularly with material availability and working restrictions. If you feel that you have been more than reasonable I think you should get something in writing (a new contract) stating a definite start date and expected completion date or your deposit back. Of course none of us can predict delays due to the weather, that is an excuse we have all learned to accept.

[DaveFerguson]

@ChelseaDave Thanks very much for that. I will contact the contractor for the umpteenth time and ask him for a definite start date. I have both messages and emails with his intending to start dates.

[ChelseaDave]

Glad to help with my view of the situation. Nowadays you always have to cover your back to make things run smoothly and without complication. I work on two levels, manufacture in my Joinery and installation at the clients premises. I always allow at least a couple of weeks extra on manufacture, this gives me additional time if there are any complications, but if not the client is very happy because their project is ready for fitting much earlier than they expected. The time saved also helps bring the next project forward. As I've mentioned in other posts, always keep a good paper trail (emails) as these are considered legal documents and you don't know when you are going to need them.

[DaveFerguson]

@ChelseaDave Thanks again, our contractor has just been in touch to confirm Monday will be a definite start. We have witnesses too! 😃
​​​​​​​I wonder if he'd read your reply?

[Nickvoc]

@ChelseaDave to the rescue! Pleased to here you finally have a start date @DaveFerguson . Early pancakes to celebrate?

[DaveFerguson]

@Nickvoc Many thanks for your help too

[ChelseaDave]

All you have to remember is that emails are a form of documentary evidence, legally binding and are admissible in a court of law, should things go that far! Therefore, make sure all business related communication between both parties is conducted via email. Emails are also a good means of reference, after all its not always easy remembering everything, particularly when changes have been made both financially and to the specification of a project!