1. What to do if the work carried out by a tradesperson is poorly executed?
Start by quickly pointing out the defects to the tradesperson by precisely describing the problems observed. Attach photographs and request that the work be redone within a reasonable timeframe. It is best to carry out this process in writing in order to keep proof of your request.
2. The craftsman does not finish the work. What are my remedies?
Send him a written request reminding him of the commitments outlined in the quote or contract. If there is no response, a formal notice can be considered before resorting to a conciliator, a mediator, or the competent court.
3. The craftsman greatly exceeds the initial estimate. Is this legal?
In principle, the tradesperson must respect the accepted estimate. Additional work may be billed only if it has been previously accepted by the client. In the event of a dispute, supporting documents and written exchanges will be particularly important.
4. Can I refuse to pay if the work is defective?
A total refusal to pay is rarely the best solution. It is often preferable to report the defects, request their correction, and keep evidence of the observed flaws. However, each situation depends on its particular context.
5. What documents should I keep?
Consistently preserve:
- quote; ;
- contracts ;
- Invoices ;
- purchase orders ;
- before and after photos of the work ;
- email exchanges ;
- SMS ;
- certified letters.
These documents may be useful in the event of a dispute.
6. The craftsman is no longer answering my calls. What should I do?
Send him/her a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt summarizing the facts and the requests made. This step makes it possible to formalize your position and constitute evidence.
7. Does a signed quote bind the parties?
Yes. Once signed, the estimate generally constitutes a binding contract committing both the client and the tradesperson to the agreed services, deadlines, and prices.
8. The craftsman has abandoned the job site. What to do?
You should first formally ask him to resume the work. In the absence of a response, you can consider an amicable solution or legal proceedings depending on the circumstances.
9. Can I bring in another tradesperson to finish the work?
Before any intervention by a third party, it is wise to keep evidence of the condition of the work site and to inform the original artisan. A hasty intervention could complicate the assessment of liabilities.
10. What to do in case of a significant delay?
Check the deadlines specified in the estimate or contract. Ask the contractor for an explanation and confirm your discussions in writing. A formal notice to perform may be considered if the delay persists.
11. The craftsman caused damage in my apartment. Who pays?
The artisan can be held liable for damages caused during their work. Depending on the case, their professional insurance may be required to intervene.
12. How to check if a tradesperson is insured?
You can request a professional liability insurance certificate and, where applicable, a decennial liability insurance certificate.
13. What is the ten-year structural guarantee?
The ten-year structural guarantee covers certain serious damage affecting the strength of the structure or making it unfit for its intended purpose for ten years after the acceptance of the work.
14. What is the guarantee of perfect completion?
It requires the contractor to repair the defects reported during the acceptance of the work or during the year following such acceptance.
15. What is the two-year warranty?
The two-year warranty covers certain fixtures that can be separated from the construction for two years, such as certain shutters, radiators, or technical equipment.
16. Can I request an expert assessment?
Yes. An amicable or court-ordered expert appraisal may be considered when it is necessary to determine the origin of the defects or to assess the cost of repairs.
17. Can we use a court-appointed conciliator?
Yes. Conciliation often helps find a quick and free solution when dialogue between the customer and the tradesperson has become difficult.
18. Is there a mediator for artisans?
Some craft businesses subscribe to a consumer mediation scheme. The consumer can then refer the matter to the competent mediator after having submitted a prior complaint.
19. What should be done if no agreement is reached?
If amicable efforts fail, it is possible to refer the matter to the competent court so that a judge can resolve the dispute.
20. How to avoid a dispute with a tradesperson?
A few precautions greatly reduce the risks:
- request multiple quotes ;
- check the insurances ;
- formalize the services in writing ;
- Specify the deadlines; ;
- keep all records ;
- regularly photograph the progress of the construction site; ;
- Report any difficulty encountered promptly.
Key points
The majority of disputes with craftspeople stem from misunderstandings regarding services, deadlines, or costs. Before considering legal action, it is generally recommended to follow a progressive approach:
- direct dialogue with the craftsman ;
- written complaint ;
- formal notice ;
- conciliation or mediation ;
- court of final appeal.
This approach often makes it possible to obtain a faster, less expensive solution that is better accepted by both parties.