Legal Question in Construction Law in Texas

Unreasonable upgrade quote

We contracted a builder to custom build our house. We requested to upgrade a few things during the project, i.e. stone mounted on some parts on the front of the house. The builder gave us a quote which we found almost double than if we were to hire a subcontractor ourself to do the same work with the same materials. The builder did the samething with the crown moldings, baseboards, etc.

The builder gave us no choice but use them for the upgrades with their unreasonable and outrageous prices. We would like to find out if we have any other options? Can we request to have a certain works removed from the project? Can we use a different subcontractor for the upgrade?

Thank you and appreciate your help!


Asked on 9/17/03, 7:13 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Nick N. Feizy Feizy Law Office

Re: Unreasonable upgrade quote

Hello,

I would need more information before I can respond to you. Thus, please call my office at (214) 651-8686 to set up a consultation.

Thanks

Read more
Answered on 9/18/03, 2:34 am
Cheryl Rivera Smith The Smith Law Firm

Re: Unreasonable upgrade quote

I would recommend that you request the builder to eliminate the crown mouldings, baseboards, etc., rough in the fireplace, but not complete it and adjust the price down accordingly. (Note: he will need to finish out to the extent that you can get a certificate of occupancy.) After move-in, improve to your heart's content. At this point, using any legal remedy would cost you more than the inflated upgrades. Best of luck in your new home.

Read more
Answered on 9/18/03, 7:22 am
Peter Bradie Bradie, Bradie & Bradie

Re: Unreasonable upgrade quote

First, you'd have to look to all the terms of your contract with the builder. If the contract will allow it, you can ask the builder to eliminate those items not needed for a certificate of occupancy, and then sub out the work when the builder has completed the job.

Bear in mind, however, that when you sub out the work, you become responsible for seeing that the job is done right, and any damage that the subs may do could void part of your builder's warranty.

Read more
Answered on 9/18/03, 9:37 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Construction Law questions and answers in Texas