1. Introduction
Disputes with builders over invoices are one of the most common problems in UK home improvement and construction projects. If you’ve been overcharged, billed for unfinished work, or faced hidden extras, you need to know your rights when handling a builder invoice dispute UK.
2. Common Causes of Builder Invoice Disputes
Invoice disagreements usually arise from:
- Overcharging compared to the original quote.
- Hidden costs not agreed in advance.
- Charging for unfinished or poor-quality work.
- Disputes over materials costs.
- Verbal agreements instead of written contracts.
3. Your Rights Under UK Law
Two key laws protect you in invoice disputes:
- Consumer Rights Act 2015 – builders must carry out work with reasonable care and skill, and at a fair price.
- Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 (for older contracts) – requires services to be provided within a reasonable time and cost.
If an invoice is unfair or does not reflect the work done, you may not be legally required to pay in full.
4. Written Quotes vs. Estimates
- Quotes – legally binding once accepted. A builder cannot charge more unless you agreed to changes.
- Estimates – rough guides, costs may vary, but they must still be reasonable.
- If the builder exceeds the estimate significantly without warning, you can challenge the invoice.
5. What to Do If You Dispute a Builder’s Invoice
- Check the contract (if one exists).
- Compare the invoice against the original quote or estimate.
- List discrepancies (extra charges, unfinished work, poor quality).
- Raise the issue in writing with the builder.
- Propose negotiation before payment.
6. Withholding Payment – Your Options
- You may withhold part of the payment if the work is defective or incomplete.
- Always pay for the portion of work completed to avoid breach of contract claims.
- Keep a record of your reasons for withholding payment.
7. Escalating a Builder Invoice Dispute UK
If negotiation fails, you can escalate:
- Mediation – through a professional dispute resolution service.
- Trade associations – if the builder is a member (e.g., FMB, TrustMark).
- Credit card/PayPal protection – if you paid this way.
- Small Claims Court – for disputes under £10,000.
- County Court – for higher-value claims.
8. Defending Against Builder Claims
If the builder takes you to court over unpaid invoices:
- You can defend the claim by showing poor-quality work, incomplete jobs, or unfair charges.
- Provide evidence such as contracts, photos, expert reports, and communication records.
- Courts often allow clients to pay a reduced amount if justified.
9. The Role of a Solicitor in Builder Invoice Disputes
A solicitor can:
- Review your contract and invoice.
- Write a formal dispute letter on your behalf.
- Negotiate with the builder to reach settlement.
- Represent you in court if the dispute escalates.
10. Preventing Future Invoice Disputes
- Always demand a written contract and quote before work starts.
- Agree on payment milestones (e.g., after completion of each stage).
- Avoid paying large deposits upfront.
- Keep written records of all agreements and changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I refuse to pay a builder’s invoice?
Yes, if the work is unfinished, defective, or charges are unfair. But you should pay for the work completed.
2. What if the builder adds extra costs not agreed?
You are not obliged to pay unless you authorised the additional work.
3. Can a builder take me to court for unpaid invoices?
Yes, but you can defend the claim if the invoice is unreasonable or work was unsatisfactory.
4. How much evidence do I need for a dispute?
Keep contracts, quotes, invoices, emails, and photos of the work. Expert reports strengthen your case.
5. Is a verbal agreement with a builder legally binding?
Yes, but harder to prove. Always insist on written agreements.
6. Can I recover money already paid?
Yes, if work was misrepresented, poor quality, or incomplete. You may claim a refund through court action.
Conclusion
A builder invoice dispute UK can be stressful, but you have strong consumer protections. Builders must charge fairly, deliver services with care and skill, and honour written quotes. If you’re faced with an unfair invoice, raise the dispute in writing, withhold payment for unfinished work, and escalate if necessary. Legal advice or the Small Claims Court can help you recover overpayments and resolve disputes.