Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Wisconsin
Building Contracts
I was given a quote for a remodling project in my home. After the quote was accepted, there was some delay in the process. After the work has been completed the contractor has raised his rates for the installation of flooring above what was accepted in the original quote. His argument is that because I had to re-schedule the flooring installation he had to raise his rate. But he never told me that he was going to raise the rate. I wanted to know if he can raise his rates without notifying me after I had agreed to his quote.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Building Contracts
As with all things, it depends. What does the language of the "quote" say? Is there a statement that this is not a guaranteed total? Would it hold up as a valid contract? It is tough to say without looking at it. If it is a substantial difference between the two, then consider retaining an attorney to take a look.
However, I would think a little negotiation may go a long way. Tell him you were happy with his work (if you were) and that you would love to recommend him to others, but you really feel that you are being burned by this higher rate. If you are reasonable he may see the benefit in having a satisfied customer bragging about him rather than a disgruntled customer feeling like he was cheated.
Best of luck.