Delay in starting building work

[saanen]

Back in June a local firm agreed to carry out a small building job for us (estimate cost �2,000). We paid �500 deposit and were told the work would begin on 19th July. Not a brick has been laid yet. The firm is a reputable one (not cowboys) and has done work for us before.
What does anyone think about the length of time we have waited? Is this reasonable, or should we kick up a fuss?
Any opinions would be welcome.

[dot.hawkes]

probably they are behind in their work schedule because of the hot weather and holidays, if they are reputable they will not want to damage that, ask them for a new date and see what they say, the building trade relies on alot of outside factors, they could have been on a job where the materials were delayed which can back every tradesman up. Don't lose them if they are good, that would be a mistake.

[saanen]

Thanks - I think we'll wait a while longer before we start making impatient noises - the summer is always a difficult time.

[yummymummy]

From a legal side of things, if a definite timescale was part of the contract, then they are in breach of contract if it goes past this timescale and you can start insisting they get on with it, or potentially cancel it and go elsewhere. Practically, if you are happy to wait then it could just be they are having probs and you can bear with them a bit longer.

[saanen]

Sadly, we didn't ask for written confirmation of start date - a lesson learned, here.