COmpensation claim on plumbing leak

[MangoPete]

I have been messed about by a company for 14 months. They were subcontracted to fix a problem and made it worse by fitting a pipe that has leaked for 14 mths and caused my ceiling to be renewed . I have had the manager lie several times and workmen not run up. Even today he failed to get someone here.
They have been 8 times over the last year. each time I have had to spend my time waiting etc.
the first company who subcontacte4d have agreed that they will pay damages and have asked me how much I should claim.
I have missed days out with the family had had to take up the floors as they haven't had the tools etc
had a son have a psychotic episode after the stress of one of their workmen swearing.
I really have no idea where to start making my claim and suggestions on how I do it?

[stanleyman]

You give the main contractor a realistic date to get the job finished and tell them that 'time is of the essence', all in writing. If they fail to complete in time they are in breach of contract and you can get someone else in to finish it and then sue them for everything.