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Opinions on paying a bill

L

LarryS

Golden Member
My water pipe (from the road to the house) sprung a leak. I called a local plumber who quoted me a cost of $450-$600 to fix the repairs. The plumber arrived and started working. Around 1 hour into the job the plumber called me to let me know he had to get a backhoe to do some digging. At no time did he mention a deviation from his original estimate.

After 4 hours, the job was complete and the plumber hands me a bill for $1100. I wrote him a check for $700, and told him to bill me the rest. After coming to my senses I dont think I want to pay this crook any more money.

His secretary called me today and asked me for my credit card number to charge the balance. I told her to mail me a bill, but I am definitely disputing the balance. She argued with me, but I stood my ground.

What are my legal rights? Anyone have any opinions on this matter?
 
I would have got concerned when the backhoe came out. Those ain't cheap to hire.

If he was charging by the hour, and the job got tricky, I can see his point.

If he gave you a firm quote, and this sounds like an estimate, you might have something.
 
Without a written estimate, you may be up the creek. I'd consult a lawyer if I were you. No amount of ATOT legal guessing is going to substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney.
 
I'm guessing the backhoe meant extra work that he didn't anticipate when he first gave you his estimate. Call another plumber and describe the work the first plumber did and ask how much he'd charge you. If it's in the ball park then the first plumber really isn't out of line. The issue is him not informing you ahead of time to give him the okay. Actually having nothing in writing tends to work in your favor. But you may have to contact an attorney to see where you stand.
 
if you had a written quote, then he should have gotten approval before doing any work beyond that scope. It's up to him to prove he did work beyond what was specified in his written quote.
 
Why didn't you raise this concern when he first handed you the $1100 bill? I'd think it would be hard to get out of paying the full amount since you told him to send you a bill....it kinda of implies you don't have an issue with the amount.
 
Since nothing was in writing except the final invoice, you are screwed.

You have nothing.

He, however, has evidence that work was done, that you were billed and that you have not paid your bill in full.

Pay the bill and be done with it.
 
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