Contracts

[Daniel H.]

I recently signed a contract to have some work done on my buildings. I paid 50% upon signing the contract. Before even starting the job, the contractor is saying he talked to his engineer and the job is going to cost 25% more. What can I do here? The reason I signed the contract is because I liked the price quoted. I just can't go and say I don't like the price we agreed on, I have to pay you 25% less.

Advice on how to handle this situation? Also, how to prevent it from happening in the future?

[Randy F.]

Originally posted by Daniel H.:

Does this sound like total BS or do these footings really need to be 24" deep??

The question isnt whether 24" footings are needed(yes), the question is... Does a few two or three more bags of concrete and 6" deeper holes justify 25% increase??

Id say NO! Is this a handyman off craigslist, or what? He didnt know from experience what was called for. He bid job. He then thought he better check with a friend to see what they thought. He had figured he could easily dig some shallow holes. Now he thinks that might be too hard and maybe oughta have an auger. And now that he thinks about it... Shoulda charged more money. Thats what it sounds like to me.

If you vetted him properly, he's licensed and insured, and knows what he's doing, i would tell him that he should have known this before bid, but you want it done right. Hold him to original contract but amend it to state that if he wants more money, he must present receipts and actual labor costs when job is complete and you will pay for additional concrete and labor for 12" x 48". If he needs a post hole digger/auger thats a tool if the trade and its on him.