The most common problems experienced by consumers when hiring contractors include work carried out outside the agreed deadlines, works left incomplete and charging of amounts different from those initially agreed. The article recommends that, before hiring, the consumer obtain several quotes, read and compare them carefully, requesting a breakdown of all materials and their respective brands, as well as a clear explanation of the work execution deadline.
The consumer should not accept the work as completed without verifying that the contract terms have been fulfilled and, above all, should always request an invoice, which serves as proof in case of conflict. From the moment a defect is detected in the work, the consumer has one year to report it to the seller, by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt, in order to have proof of the complaint.
After the complaint is made, if the builder does not proceed with the repair and an out-of-court resolution is not possible, the property owner may go to court, filing an action before three years after notifying the builder. If that period passes, the builder is freed from the obligation to repair the defects.
When defects cannot be repaired, the consumer has the right to demand new construction. If neither repair nor new construction is possible, they can demand a price reduction corresponding to the difference between the agreed value and the estimated cost to correct the defects. The article is from DECO MADEIRA, available through the number 968 800 489 or the email [email protected].
