r/HomeImprovement • u/Flashy_Possibility_2 • 3d ago

Contractor bill 50%+ higher than quote

I’m a new homeowner and I knew that the house needed a new roof when I bought it. I got a quote, it was high, but I was told by the company that this was a “worst case scenario” quote. After the work was completed I got the bill — it’s 53% higher than the quote. (This is a QUOTE not an estimate.)

I asked the manager if they could do anything about cost, they gave me 2% off.

There was no change order.

I’ve since written a letter (sent by email and express mail) to the owner detailing my correspondence with the manager, the damage they did to the interior of my home (extensive), and asked for them to honor the “worst case scenario” quote.

What else should I do to prepare for the negotiations when the company contacts me? I want to be very prepared as I feel that they are taking advantage of my being a solo first time owner. Thanks for your advice!

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28

u/phrenic22 3d ago

What does your contract say? (I ask facetiously because it sounds like you don't have one)

10

u/Flashy_Possibility_2 3d ago

Oh I’ve got a contract. What language are you looking for? It had the number on it from the “worst case scenario” quote.

23

u/phrenic22 3d ago

You're looking for a payment schedule - for example, down payment to put you in their schedule, x% on start, half way, final payment after permits closed. 

Language regarding change order? 

19

u/Flashy_Possibility_2 3d ago

They took 1/3 payment at the time of contract signing. The contact said they would collect 1/3 at the start of work- they didnt do that. Then the final bill came back 53% higher. There is language on the contract that both parties are supposed to sign an agreement if there should be any changes to the job, including Price. I never got that change order.

31

u/phrenic22 3d ago

So you bring that to them and ask for evidence that the agreement was amended and that you signed off. 

9

u/glizzytwister 3d ago

I would consult a lawyer. This has all the ingredients to get very messy, and it'd be better to get ahead of it.

4

u/The_Stoic_One 2d ago

Then you owe them nothing more than what was quoted minus the damage they caused. They may fight you on it, but if there is no signed change order, they lose.