builder wants to pull out

[1bertie]

Hi
The builder we have hired informed us in a whatsapp message that he cannot continue the contracted job on our house but he gave no reason or official letter. We are doing a garage conversion+ small extension.
We have paid him 90% of the cost and until now he has done about 50% by my estimation.We have no clauses or deadlines in the agreement.
What are the consequences for him and which would be the next steps? How to get the money bask asap?
Should he cancel the contract or should we do this?
Do we need a solicitor at this early stage or we can negociate with him in layman's terms via informal emails?
Thank you

[atticus]

Oh dear. You describe a situation in which you will be left with an unfinished job, despite having paid for most of it. You may consider legal action, essentially for the cost of completing the work. But is your builder going to be able to pay?

[1bertie]

We believe he has financial ability to pay.
Should we attempt to negociate and agree a sum for him to refund first without legal action?
Also, should we write a letter/ email stating clearly we end the contract based on him admitting he cannot continue or this is implied and not necessary?
Thank you

[DE DOGS]

Afraid it`s normal practice with so-called Builders pay as you have, they then walk away to scam the next in line

[sandfordboy]

Do you have a cost build up that led to the original quote?If so,are you able to quantify how much work/materials are actually completed/or materials on site?Are you able to get the Builder to put his cards face up on the table & understand the issues that have led to this situation?Any ideas on getting a budget estimate to complete the outstanding works to completion & handover?You may struggle to find an alternative builder. Any effort to end/discharge the contract should follow very cautious consideration over the real details in all of this.