Builder gets scammed by client

Builder gets scammed by client
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[@D230261]

Name and shame...Best way to make sure no one else gets scammed...

[@admodz3292]

Some people are scum of the earth,take him to court and expose him.chin up fella,keep pushing on with the great work

[@MrGeoffreySmith]

Be calm, be focused, and don't let the bastards drag you down. You're the good guy in this situation 😀

[@lawoftheuniverse8089]

I'm guessing he is the good guy in every situation...!!!

[@skaterguy52]

Turn it into a win buddy. Go speak to the owners of the house you were renovating and extending and see if you can work out a way for them to have it completed by you

[@jimmy2ice]

I remember my cousin saying 20 plus years ago that people give builders a bad name but a lot of people don’t know how bad the customers can be

[@mrshifter9582]

It won't get you your money mate but your a great human being, really enjoyed watching the stuff you have done on KZbin. Keep the faith brother 👍

[@derekpowell1762]

The building industry is the only business I know where the customer think it's right to negotiate the he price at the end of the job even when everything is agreed before you start

[@ORGPPL1]

Go and undo the work you've done

[@nettybooa1104]

I'm so sorry about your experience. He will try scamming the wrong person one day.

[@mikejames663]

We never hear of bad client's or really good builders, you're entitled to take the work down if you haven't been paid (in an orderly fashion) OR get your 28lb sledge out and make them an offer they can't refuse. Mind in your case, the home owner may be suffering like you are. I'm a 73 year old builder, (still doing a bit with my son), I could write a book on this subject, paying the guilty party a house visit works (especially if you have the sledge with you). Got to say, you never helped yourself from the start, always trust your first impression, never, ever do work before a price is agreed, always (as you did) organise pay stages, but stick to them. Good luck mate, as bad as it is, this experience will do you good.

[@tommodobbo3475]

Hahaha you know that. The sledge hammer is coming out if need be

[@Lee-qr8xv]

I live in Canada and here it is illegal to destroy installed improvements.

[@mikejames663]

@@Lee-qr8xv Is it legal to rip your builder off, No, then it's legal to demolish, crazy situation.

[@mikejames663]

@A Google User Totally agree, BUT! depends on which solicitor you speak to. Some people get away with paying, disgraceful, get the sledge out.

[@mikejames663]

@A Google User How can they fine him for repossessing his own property, can only fine him for trespassing.

[@sketchyhead5878]

Learning the hard way. It’s happened to many of us. The key is to learn from the experience and avoid a repeat at all costs. You’re a professional doing good work, so you’ll ride this through. Good luck and don’t repeat!

[@Tridhos]

Surely the local trading standards would be interested? Four of my brothers were builders and they told me of many similar stories where they had been stung. I recently employed an electrician just a small job installing 7 wall mounted electrical heaters. He was recommended by the company that sold me the heaters and did an excellent job took roughly six hours. I asked for the bill before he left and I was on line immediately so pay his bill in full. I have no time for people who get work done and then try to dodge or even delay paying. If the job has been done to your satisfaction then do the decent thing and pay people for the work they have done, they have to support themselves.

[@paulmccarthy424]

Sorry to hear this mate , he will get what’s coming,😡. You guys carry on doing the great work you’ve been doing. You have entertained and educated everyone watching. I wish you every success 👍

[@bertiewooster3326]

Here's a tip I'm a plumber did a job for a Pakistani family all prices and contract agreed got to the last day and his Mrs says we think it was too expensive can you give a discount I said no we agreed the price and work .As they owed me £ 1.5k I knew their game so I said ok I finish off tomorrow and we can talk all smiles !. Next day I went in removed the taps and power shower costing total of £ 1.5k went downstairs and told her job done don't worry about the last £1.5k smiles and I left rapidly . I then told every plumber I knew not to attend the house !! I won they learnt a lesson.

[@ronaldsymonds5123]

I am a 88 year old retired carpenter in 1970--71 we were in the same position with a architect over payments in those days no mobile phones Or emails so one day we had 5 cubic yards of ready mixed concrete on order we couldn't cancel no phone so delivery arrived and we dumped the lot on the front path, we didn't get our money (. £1100) but we do know the concrete was still there a week later. Good luck mate.

[@SleeKi]

Who cares if they're Pakistani? Where are you from?

[@gregtully9934]

@@ronaldsymonds5123 haha you are not 88 MATE

[@MrMagsimus]

@Bertie Wooster mate she asked for a discount but I don’t feel like she wasn’t gonna pay you.. Asians come from a haggling market traders background anyway .. they like to have the banter .. I’m Asian myself bro I just quote higher then knock it down but in my head that was the price anyway and after a cuppa tea they pay cash each time on the dot no cards no fkn cheques so I think your tap theory was bit OTT mate.. yeh if they refuse to pay then take the bloody bricks home I say .

[@bertiewooster3326]

@@MrMagsimus Sorry chum this game is played so often we no longer do work for any folk like this we just give a very high quote and move on we don't need the hassle or confrontation plenty of other work with no hassle it's there own fault.

[@stephengreen6338]

One of the problems is your faith in humanity, you want to be able to trust the other guy, because your judging them by your own standards of conduct, the thing is...don t, because although your a decent person, there are many that are not, everyday is a learning day, best of luck to you ,and your crew, and thanks for sharing your experience

[@goldenineke]

That inner London site was such a hard site to work on plus all the work you did was very complex with all the drainage rerouting and the foundation etc. I feel very sorry for the property owner too. They are going to be left with a huge mess. I wonder if that person will contact you direct to finish the job? I’m so sorry this has happened to you and your team Darren. You don’t deserve this! We get our fair share of dodgy builders here in Australia too unfortunately.

[@steve45678]

So sorry to hear the situation you're in , hope things improve soon. I've watched your channel for some time now and also admire the quality of your work.

[@notlaw2004]

just watched this been following your building projects and you are a genuine guy hope you get whats owed to you stay strong.

[@wandaroach765]

I’m so sorry this happened to you, you and your crew are so conscientious, keep up the great work.

[@roblescurbappealconcrete]

You seem like a very upstanding young man, and I’m sure you’ll stay positive. Keep up with the awesome videos. I really enjoy watching y’all work and do things right. Thank you so much for sharing. You have a new Sub. Keep the faith. Joe Texas.

[@barryduke8329]

I am so sorry, this has happened to you. I have watched a few of your videos now and as you show yourself and all your work you are obviously a genuine person who does a good job. Hope it all gets sorted for you.

[@lucindas2931]

I am so grieved to hear about this! I’m so angry you were cheated and you are so right, this guy has to be stopped! When I think of the heavy lifting you did for this job and then to have nothing to show for it! Thanks for sharing all of this and I hope you are able to get this guy dealt with legally! Best of luck!

[@gerhardtmuller7439]

Sorry to say but you walked into it.

[@wandaroach765]

So my friend what lesson have you learned? You and your team are decent people, please don’t let anyone take advantage of your goodness anymore.

[@wandaroach765]

Yep I’ve been scammed just at the start of the pandemic on a completely different platform, credit card, fortunately was able to finally get in touch with fraud department. LSS I was reimbursed 2,000 adding to this my husband of 45yrs had just passed away the month before. I feel your pain.

[@ruthbees7214]

I feel for you because you are hardworking and want to see good in other people. Not everyone can be trusted to pay you after the good work you have done. Such a shame.🤙💪😃Ruth

[@zanhoward9182]

Sorry for your loss what goes around comes around . It is nice to see that you have integrity and honesty.

[@Shah-Jahan]

Been watching your videos recently, had to comment. Love your dedication and hard work. Scammers are a fact of life, even the most diligent get scammed, don't be too hard on yourself. Wish you the best.

[@lynnwalsh1392]

So sorry you are going through this. I'm impressed with your skills.

[@Ladybug-uf7uh]

So sad and sorry that this happened to you. You are a good, decent man. A rare thing in a world without much decency. Hold tight to what you believe and what you know is right.

[@irfan84a]

Disappointed to hear that this has happened to an honest builder like yourself. I do hope that you are able to recoup your monies. I really enjoy watching your videos and learning a few things here and there. Keep up the great content.

[@sixtysecondsofstephens2386]

Sorry to hear that mate, I love your videos.

[@Spencerlayne]

You're a good bloke man. Keep doing what you're doing. Sorry to hear about this.

[@lindabowens8602]

Thank you for sharing. I pray that everything works out for your good.

[@ian_s7481]

2 mistakes you made, when he didn’t pay the deposit, you shouldn’t have carried on. Then you did another job for him while he still hadn’t paid the deposit. Doesn’t matter who they are or if they give you a sob story, if you have a contract or agreement in place you stick to it, no ifs no buts. You can almost guarantee when they don’t stick to an agreement they are doing it for a reason.

[@handyjayes1]

We've all done it...

[@tracer1127]

I always have a deposit and then get paid in stage payments at the end of each week. I fit kitchens and bathrooms including tiling, plastering, plumbing,flooring etc. No deposit on the day I start the job and my tools would be in the van. No stage payment when agreed and the job would finish and I wouldn’t entertain carrying on unless I was paid in full. Obviously you have to be a little flexible but if you think the customer is trying it on, under no circumstances carry on. I turn up and have pride in my work and carry out the job to a high standard. Do not become a busy fool. In twenty years I have only met a few idiots, most potentially bad or awkward customers are sussed out at the quote stage and if I couldn’t see me getting on with them I would rather have the time off.

[@janettejohnson8345]

I'm sure lesson learned so doesn't really need saying But there was a time when trust was a good word and its a good soul who still gives the man that. It's the abuser of that will get his just-deserts and if fortune smiles this man here will be around when that happens

[@johnchristmas7522]

Many years ago, when I first started out in my business, I did some work for a builder at his home. He was diamond, paid up front each time. So I asked what did he do with non payers. His answer shook me, being naive and all. He said " I have two of the ugliest bastards you'll ever meet, you'll pay!" Coming away from his home I was shocked. Did it really come down to that? Must be another way and there is, GET PROFESSIONAL HELP. Its expensive, so is not being paid.

[@shelleyshell1150]

So sorry to hear about this unethical scam artist 😡🤬. Glad you’re keeping a positive attitude. I would absolutely take him to court, he needs to be stopped. Also, I would talk to the Chancellor and give him a heads up about what’s going on ASAP. I’m surprised someone hasn’t gone to the authorities after the burglary. So many people scammed- it’s a shame.

[@a.fellow7773]

Sorry to hear this has happened, hope it doesn't affect you too much and stick it to them in court

[@TheMalcolms7]

Wow This is crazy bro. Well done for keeping your sanity. This highlights that there are people that are taking advantage of others in the industry. This is why reviews are critical. Keep your head up King 👑

[@dstarrepairs6215]

Thanks for sharing king 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 had myself a little issue like this recently but landed on my feet with greater opportunities straight after was most definitely a lesson learnt for me al tell ya wish you guys all the best moving forward…..

[@jamesaldridge6899]

This really angers me, you come across as extremely professional and your work is fantastic. I think you are dealing with this the right way, hopefully they will see this and and appreciate that you are giving them a chance to resolve the situation and pay you and not disrespect your courtesy. Very wise words and I’m glad to see it hasn’t stopped the passion for what you do and the commitment to your customers. Unlike the scammer, you have nearly 7500 supporters….😉👍🏼

[@grahamabbott7072]

they wont pay him, i have had customers like this, they just think its business not personal and carry on regardless, the law in the uk sucks at protecting builders from this type of client, and its illegal to remove anything you have installed no matter what contract you have. mad world we live in

[@dalturbo]

Sorry to hear that bro. Hopefully they get what they deserve!

[@daudDC500]

Thank you for sharing brother. I am learning from your mitakes. Sorry you went through this

[@markrowley9801]

thanks for the video and making people aware of this

[@jphillips5576]

Live and learn. Keep moving forward with what you do best!

[@richardpoulter2146]

Write on your quote that all materials remain your property until full payments

[@roberthacker6443]

Great video hope everything goes right

[@jeansutton8548]

I'm so sorry to hear what's happened to you, and it sounds like others too. You trusted him , as you say he gives the building trade a very bad name I wish you well my friend you are truly a Gentleman, keep safe, God bless ❤️❤️

[@ExtremeShez]

The architect is clearly a shameless and disgraceful human being. Thank for being true gents and the video is a great reminder to ensure we do our due diligence.

[@craigmelvin5206]

Enjoyed that mate, sorry for what your going through, from a self employed roofer in Coventry

[@martyletitbee1519]

Really enjoy watching your work. Your a really professional outfit. I feel your pain. Chin up your skills and care shine through.

[@TheScotsmanabroad]

Sorry to hear your story - terrible news. It felt that something bad was happening over the past few weeks. Good Luck

[@AngelaDavis-yz3xf]

You Sir are a gentleman. Subscribed 😊

[@ozzyefc44]

Great video Darren . I hope karma gets to bite the backside of this fella . Keep on making great videos with great content . 👍

[@phalimmaguire6069]

Really sorry to hear your story, Clearly your a decent guy and trustworthy, reliable contractor. You Just can’t trust some people can you basically the guy is a thief. On a different note Really enjoy watching your extension video mate many more to watch thou , should keep me busy . Best of luck

[@campoman1681]

What a pain. I feel it for you. Hope you get a good result.

[@lawoftheuniverse8089]

I hope you got this thing sorted out My Friend cuz you and your team do excellent work... This type of trash should be put out of business...!!!

[@deanevans7707]

Sorry you ve had this my friend had it myself in the past on my own jobs. Unfortunately these people operate without a care in the world while the good companies like yourself get screwed. I had it where I did a favour for someone, I did nt charge any labour only for the materials. After many weeks of asking for material money in the end they sent me a solicitor letter saying I d damaged something that I never even seen let alone damaged it. I was advised it would of cost me more in challenging for the material money than what I d lost so had to let it go. It’s annoyed me all these years but it shows you whose out there mate. I guess we learn and it just makes us more careful In The future. I hope you sort it mate your a great guy and do great work. Dont let these spoil the good people and decent jobs out there all the best Dean.

[@markwillmer6382]

A very clear and professional summary of your situation. Its is a familiar story for a lot of us in the building trade. Your absolutely right about builders being asked to "prove" themselves and give clients "unbalanced reassurances". We are architectural and technical designers and work closely with small teams that, like you, are professional and hardworking and just want to paid for what you do. After all, you and your team have the skills and professionalism that clients just don't have! Your knowledge has to be paid for. I have watched a few of your videos, brought to my attention by my son actually who also enjoys your channel as a builder himself. Like a few posts below have mentioned, tell the client in Victoria the situation or just send him a link to your video and leave him to decide what to do. He's a smart guy, so let him deal with the main contractor. Your Ex client should be taken to court, simple as that, we all have to squeeze these "chancers" out of the trade. Good luck

[@johnchristmas7522]

WHEN A CUSTOMER DOES NOT PAY. ITS STEALING. THINK OF IT THAT WAY. NOTHING TO DO WITH YOUR WORK OR WHAT YOU HAVE DONE.

[@mbrown2776]

Go high court or magistrates if less than 5k, & get a WRIT done. It is a legal summary doc that orders the debtor to pay ALL OUTSTANDING monies owed IMMEDIATELY. This is served by a HCEO (High Court Enforcement Officer) they can seize debtors ASSETS wether BUSINESSES or PERSONALLY owed. You can’t hide from the high courts ANYWHERE within the UK. THEY WILL TRACK YOU DOWN. If dept owing is 5K or under, ask the Magistrates to ESCALATE THE CASE/WRIT TO THE HIGH COURTS to action. They will be on the job in less than 5 days after order. Usually within 48Hrs before Coviid. GOOD LUCK BRO. DO NOT WASTE ANY FURTHER TIME!! From an Accredited Enforcement Officer ✊🏾💯

[@leighbrowne8863]

Couldn’t agree more! I’m an Electrician in Newcastle and have had several customers who have absolutely no intention of paying for the work carried out. It’s a nightmare! Trying to get your money is so frustrating! I try and put it behind me and move on. Best of luck

[@johnchristmas7522]

Get professional advice, its expensive but so is not being paid. Read my first answer to this situation. Never start any job without the deposit, by the time second fix comes round, you should have had 90% of the bill

[@michaelcollins7313]

You're a good man and it's just so disheartening to have scammers such as this ruining honest people's lives. As a builder for over 40 years experience, I can honestly say that the level of dishonesty regarding clients is very much on the increase, so please be very careful. There's plenty of talk about cowboy builders but hardly anything about COWBOY CLIENTS!!!

[@Zeus-kj7nn]

I really sympathise how decent guys like yourselves get stung. I've been there. Research is key these days. You're better prepared now and for the future. Subscribed.

[@atk8883]

You're a top man. Keep up the amazing work. I'm a new subscriber and I can see your channel becoming very successful.

[@darrenthebuilder]

I appreciate that!

[@mumtazkhanum3594]

You are a humble and honest person. May Allah increase your success and business in many folds 🙏🏽

[@chunkymonkey8932]

im truly Sorry to hear about this, you have the right positive attitude try to put it behind you but maybe keep a few irons in the fire to recover what is owed to you. Your channel is great,looking forward to seeing your future projects ;-)

[@Joshuadg95]

That's so frustrating! Anyway, every pig has their Saturday as my nan would say, they'll get their due! You have all the evidence on your side that you've kept up your side of the deal! Keep up the good work regardless!

[@johnjohnson7653]

Have been ripped off several times your a honest great worker u don't deserve to be treated unjustly your team is great

[@nickenderson4421]

We’ve all been there.. so true that we (builders) get a bad rep but customers are a nightmare too! Late payments for small self employed people are so damaging! Hold us to ransome

[@someguyandCo]

I'm a builder myself and I always collect 50% of the cost of the job first. Due to this very reason Saying this you and your team are good men and on my leval my friend. I hate the con men and cowboys in this industry. I always get the calls to short bad workout I hope he goes to prison for what he is doing to builders and customers alike.

[@dread4836]

sorry to hear about this situation, we have all gone through it though, I can smell bullshit a mile away these days, Good Luck Lads

[@jogaudet1]

Wow!! I am so sorry!! Hopefully he will get his in the end!!!

[@janettejohnson8345]

Really sorry to hear your dilemma some people have absolutely no scruples or morals and sleep at night doing it they are disgusting for the customer and honest hard working people hope you do take this parasite to court x

[@namski2410]

I was going to change my double glazed windows and called for quotes from 3 companies. The owner of one of the companies came by himself and we discussed. His prices were a little high, but it reflected the higher quality of his stuff - clearly evident when compared to the other two. However, when I asked him about warranty, all he asked is that I should pay at least £100 using my credit card. That should then be my first line of call in event of defect or any warranty issues. I was like, is this really coming from the owner of a company? Save to say that despite the better quality of his windows, I took the decision to go with a different company. Serious dodgy and horrible people out there

[@irishtourist]

I think (not 100%) the credit card company takes of the liability for the purchase... I put all major purchases to my credit card for the extra protection

[@rootchiller]

I feel you dodged a bullet.

[@daveasnell]

I really feel for you buddy I've been through simaler and struggled for months after I hope your can sort it, it seems this country protects this type of person.

[@dennishughes1942]

Need to tell you this. I did a fairly large contract for a guy who was one of top five in a Local Authority and whom I considered to be honest. How wrong I was. Needed a quote on a letterhead for a certain sum which was way off the contract value. Said he just wanted that much on it to secure second mortgage. As the job developed, he said his money was tied in thirty day accounts and could never pay full amount of draw but not to worry as he would make up for it in the end. During the job, he asked us to install new windows in areas not marked on the drawing. Wanted the kitchen dining smaller and the lounge bigger. Wanted stairs in a different location to that marked on the drawing and so on and on. To cut a long story short I got a solicitors letter saying that I was deemed not to be qualified to act as a builder and as an example he quoted the following. The extension was nothing like it was on the drawing with the windows not in the correct place, even the staircase was i stalled in the wrong location. The Di ing and kitchen area was not the size it showed on the drawing. He fiddled the plumber and worst of all the painter who I had recommended, even the roofer got done and the Electrical Company. Proper bastard of a guy just like his wife. Had it all planned from day one. Learned later that he had history and was known for doing this. Lost £27000 and that is the minimum in my opinion. Evil man and I hope he gets his just desserts. By the way, the ridiculous figure he wanted for a second mortgage was considered by him to be my Quotation in total for the cost of the work. You hear about cowboy builders but tell you this, there are more cowboy and crooked customers as well.

[@bav8901]

Mate keep us posted on any developments on the situation 👍

[@environpropertyservices2708]

Payment plans are vital. We run most of our jobs on JCT contracts. This protects you and the customer. I’ve seen fellow builders go under because of cowboy customers. Keep up the good work my friend

[@eddiemorley4812]

You have a nice attitude I wish you all the best 👍

[@ComedyKraze1]

You learn from your mistakes 100% you won't do this again.. You live and you learn even if it's the hard way keep grinding bro

[@derekdonlon5291]

God Bless you your future will prosper for you and your family and your Business ❤❤

[@BrandNew777]

I think we all know who doesn't like paying for an honest day's work

[@leonlion8461]

Keep going bro, I’ve had similar experiences.

[@traditionalskillstrust1546]

I can tell that you are professional and doing your best for the customer. I am sorry that you have to be exposed to unscrupulous individuals. I hope you can resolve the matter.

[@carter83419]

Stay strong bud 👊🏻

[@raymondgill9796]

Good luck, hope you get paid. Glad to see that you have learnt two valuable lessons. 1. Due diligence always. 2. Cash up front no excuses, no exceptions.

[@leabarto8156]

I'm so sorry this happened. It happened to my company years ago. I will say that taking them to court would have cost more than what was owed. The guys I worked with dealt with him on there own. It took over a year but we got our money in the end. Good luck to you and your crew.

[@paulmaryon9088]

Dude really feel for you there, has happened to me in the past, live and learn, move on, be lucky,

[@kevinmccormack5192]

I wish you you well , you seem to to be very honest and a genuine chap, maybe you could find out where he lives and check around his movements. It’s very stressful. Good luck.

[@tommyb5244]

This smart arse Chinese customer tried not to pay me and sometimes you got to take it into your own hands. You know what I mean ;). Don’t think he would ever do it again🤣

[@joefinlay9138]

Fair play good on you mate, hope he gets his

[@michaelanderson-gx7fg]

your a dream of a builder mate to nice and really honest , wish you lived in the north east

[@rollingmillions]

Thanks for sharing your experience. We are contractor as well, but we are always careful as in early days that same thing happens with us but we paid builders from our pocket on time. If that happen we straight stopped working and walk away.

[@mohammadalhulu1308]

I hope you get your money from this scammer. Good luck

[@RedAndWhiteCOYG]

I always take 50% upfront before any tools go in the ground,good video my man keep your head up

[@eetwtszdfsregreshteshu]

very calm and professional. A credit to yourself.

[@woody8942]

Hi so sorry to hear all about that guy how can they sleep at night your work is of a high standard and you are a very honest and caring person who loves there work and take care in doing what ever job you are doing and for him he give builders the wrong reviews ,,,,, just had my tumour removed and starting my immune therapy boy if I had the strength I’ll get your money back and some,,, god bless to you and the boys. X woody

[@dickieearl4998]

Absolute scumbags, man's word is his bond. This fella has no salt.

[@dmc7324]

This really sucks. You're work is quality and you come across as a really decent honest man. Maybe they should do tv programmes about dodgy clients for a change!

[@subliminalart.1637]

No money up front, no work bro. You are to nice, with a great skills set. There are plenty of good people out there, who require your talents. Keep going young man. I now always wear a small Go pro.😁🇬🇧🙏

[@paulperrin2152]

Once bitten twice shy Darren, hope you get sorted out

[@265petsar]

We all hear about cowboy builders, but there are just as many cowboy customers out there. I wish I could get you to do some work for me, but Belfast would be too far. Your work speaks for itself, we all need builders like you, and keep up the great videos.

[@themudhutt1]

Miserable bunch of crooks . So sorry for you shame you don’t ‘know’ someone to help , courts will tie it up forever.

[@johnjames-nb1dl]

Sorry to hear my friend, worked for myself for 12 years and it's always in the back of your mind getting paid when completed, hope you resolve it. I used to ask for weekly pay, stops them holding payment over you

[@ajwatson9974]

I’m so sorry to hear! I didn’t know builders get scammed 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@bladeboy2041]

So sorry about this guys. It must be your worst nightmare.