Question:
Shalom,
When a contarctor is hired and completes the work for a specific project (everything is complete and has been used by the client to his satisfaction).
However during the construction a utility service (telephone/internet line) had been damaged during the construction. This was done completely unintentionally and even after receiving a legal document saying that none of their service lines are found on premises.
Now the utility company has sent a letter with both the contractors and homeowners saying it will analyze the damages and send a bill for the repairs and their insurance companies should be made aware.
The client now wants to withhold the balance of what he owes the contractor because he received that letter from the utility company.
Is this allowed ?
Thank you
Answer:
Hello,
According to what you are describing, the contractor did nothing wrong, as the proper precautions were taken. You even have written confirmation that the company wrote that there are no lines in the area of the construction. Therefore as far as you and the contractor are concerned, the utility company is trying to steal from both of you. This is not a reason for you to withhold payment from the contractor for the job that he honestly did.
Best wishes
