Precedent - shared cost

[puzzledvery]

Yes. The workman hasn't been paid yet, which seems unfair. He was misled by the neighbours saying they would contribute. Since I believe, from information on official websites, that it should be equal shares, I have told him that. He said ask the neighbours to contribute. No replies forthcoming. I'm puzzled, very, as to whether to give up and pay the whole amount, or just my share. No estimate given at the start, no written bill so far, just verbal.

[islandgirl]

Would the person who called the tradesman not be liable for the full amount (in theory)

[puzzledvery]

Yes, I would love to believe that but it looks as if he will get away with paying nothing. I should have stopped the process when the tradesman found the fault, told neighbour who called him to pay him, then demanded written agreements for payment for any further work before allowing it to be done. Wise after event...

[islandgirl]

It is not the tradesman's fault of course and he should be paid in full, I think in your position I would write a letter to the neighbours quoting your proof that all bills should be shared and ask them for their contribution. I would also state that no future repairs will be allowed on your property unless their share is paid up front against a firm estimate (with any extra costs to be billed after the repair is completed). Put your cards on the table now to avoid the same thing happening. If they do not pay now I think for the sake of neighbour relations you will have to take the hit. Let us know what happens

[puzzledvery]

I've already told them several times that it should be a shared bill. Letters asking for them to pay their shares were ignored.

[islandgirl]

Well the choice is yours.Pay the tradesman and write to the neighbours saying that in future no payments will be made unless contributions from the m paid up front against an estimate and don't ask again. OR pay the tradesman and take them to court for their share (ruin relationships forever?) OR try to involve the utility company to pressure the others. There are other options too. The choice is yours.

[puzzledvery]

Should I ask the tradesman for a bill then? Have had nothing in writing.

[puzzledvery]

And say in a letter / text, that although I still don't believe I should be paying the whole bill ...

[puzzledvery]

Ask for a bill?

[islandgirl]

I would expect the tradesman to issue the bill - see what happens!

[puzzledvery]

Thank you Islandgirl and everyone. I'll wait, then.

[Scot22]

On another law forum a retired judge stated responsibility for payment lies with whoever engaged the tradesman. It seems to me that is your neighbour. He should be billed and have to deal with payment and you agree to contribute half.

[puzzledvery]

Thank you, Scott22. I agree that would be sensible, but the situation here is not sensible. I think he is hoping to move house anyway.

[Scot22]

I know the type. If he is hoping to move a gigantic reason not to have a dispute with neighbour.

[puzzledvery]

Yes, it could cause problems with the purchaser.