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Bricklaying & Repointing

Think I have employed cowboys. What should I do?

Anonymous user 09/03/2024 - 3.09 PM

I've been trying to get repointing work done for ages. Last year I contacted multiple companies who were all too busy. On Friday a builder working down the street (logoed work van, men in same 'uniform') said he could do it and start Monday. (should have been my first red flag). No payment until work completed. I agreed but when I got home from supermarket on Saturday workmen were there. Had cleaned brickwork and scraped out loads of old mortar. As one cleared out another was filling in. Stayed all day Saturday, no scaffolding, working on ladders only. They arrived again Sunday and stayed all day. They have now started asking for money (cash) as they need more supplies. I said only payment would be by bank transfer but now he's saying it is going to cost more as the price he gave is off the books. The bank details he's given to transfer money is a female (foreign name). I am stuck as what to do. I am an older female on my own. I asked for the work doing and they have been here all weekend (4 days now). Someone I spoke to said they are part of a local gypsy clan, which has frightened me as I don't want repercussions. Does anyone have any advice about who I can contact? I don't have family nearby for support.

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4 Answers

Anonymous user

Hi Thay are back in the Dorset area I had to move some rouge traders on in Weymouth some time ago working out the bank of my parents the next door neighbor's had got them in to do some fencing I sent them packing and the neighbours had to get the police the next day as they were hassleing for money. Sorry to hear you are having problems and you feel a bit vulnerable. If you're local to Weymouth area please feel free to give me a call I would be happy to pop round and have a look at there work and have a chat with them on your behalf. I hope it all works out for you Andy

Answered19 May 2020

lakeside construction southern limited

Rating: 5 out of 5

Christchurch

Hello. Explain that this was not as per your agreement, And that no money will be paid until the job is done. Pointing is a very simple process, usually it is done by a square metre rate, and only if more area is done should it cost more money. They may try and intimidate you, call the police if this happens and pay them what is fair. Do not pay them anything other than agreed and in the timeframe you agreed it. To ask for more money for supplies is possibly a scam. The only supplies needed are sand and cement and this is a cheap material. If in doubt or you are frightened you should call the police, these people usually work on intimidation and also will pick their targets with customers. I hope this helps! Simon.

Answered19 May 2020

C.J.S Building contractors

Rating: 4.7 out of 5

St Asaph

I would contact the police and tell them what you've told me

Answered19 May 2020

SDS CIVILS LIMITED

Rating: 4.2 out of 5

Ashford, Kent

If they was starting on Monday they should never have come Saturday without consulting the home owner I wouldn’t pay any money until the job is done as agreed from the start ask for company details to check if they are who they say they are if it’s turns into a dispute call trading standards or you’re local authority.

Answered19 May 2020