New kitchen and wardrobes - e3000 deposit?

Hannaho

Hi! I have never gotten a new kitchen etc. Recommended a guy through a guy who did mine and my sister's bathrooms. Getting a new kitchen, understairs storage, wardrobes in three bedrooms and wall to wall shelving in office. Cost e13,500. The guy asked for e3000 depoist made out to his kitchen company, and gave ma receipt - still really wary of handing over cheque for e3000 - is this how it is usually done. He said he would start work on 14th September, but that's not in writing - what if he doesn't turn up then for months. Is this the way it's usually done when getting kitchens/wardrobes??

labin_86

You usually have to hand over a deposit when getting work carried out.
I handed over a 40% deposit for my Kitchen and payed the balance upon installation. Its all custom made so the company would struggle to sell it on if I decided that I had changed my mind after the kitchen had been made and they had spent a lot of time actually making the thing.
On top of this, a lot of contractors would request a deposit so they can pay for materials that they need tp start the works.

Get him to agree a date in writing if that's your main concern, it wouldnt do any harm to ask him for a few more recommendations too for your own peace of mind.

I think deposits are pretty standard.

firlodge

A deposit is perfectly acceptable but you need all details in writing - including extent of work, materials to be used, how it will be left (removal of rubbish etc) insurance details (what if he falls off a ladder while in your house?) & start & finish date.