My Painter is missing

[Suzie]

My painter isn't answering my calls and won't return my messages. He started painting our house, got 2/3rds done and disappeared. We haven't seen him for 2 weeks.What should I do? Should I hire someone else to finish the job? And stupid me I paid him already for the whole job. Help

[rachel]

Hi Suzie, that sounds awful.

Was your painter registered ie. with the Painters Registration Board or similar? They may be able to assist.

What details do you have? Business address etc? You may need to write to him and ask that he a) finish the work to your satisfaction or b) return the money.

If he doesn't do so you may need to file a claim with the small claims court in your state.In Western Australia it is the Magistrates' Court. There is usually a small lodgment fee but you don't need a lawyer to appear in court for you.

I'm not a lawyer so please get your own advice if going down that road. I'm sorry to hear you're having troubles.

[Suzie]

I only have a card with his mobile number on it. Not even a home number or an address. I rang the Painters Registration Board and guess what he's not registered. I should have checked that first. I'm kicking myself. It's more the inconvenience that even the money, such a pain.

[rachel]

Ouch, sorry Suzie :(

I do know a good painter if you are in Perth..

[Julie-Ann]

Suzie try ringing the painter from a different telephone number, like a neighbour or friends phone. He may now recognise your number and not be answering.
My tip is don't ring on a Monday or Friday. I have been working with tradesmen on a Monday morning and their phone doesn't stop ringing, and it is driving them crazy. Also, dont phone on a Friday because by Monday morning they may have forgotten about you.
If you do get in touch with him also try to give him a deadline. Something like we have visitors coming in 2 weeks so I really need it finished by then.
Good luck, let us know how you go.

[Julie-Ann]

Any luck with the painter Suzie?
A friend on Twitter suggested don't hire someone to finish the job but someone to finish the painter (only joking).
Thinking of you.

[Suzie]

Just wanted to let you know I rang the painter from my friends phone this morning and he answered. I think he was a little surprised it was me. so I told him we are expecting visitors in 2 weeks and I need everything finished. He says he will be here Thursday at 9am. So heres hoping. Thanks for everyones help.

[rachel]

That sounds promising Suzie, I hope it works out for you!

[Julie-Ann]

I'm so pleased for you. I will keep my fingers crossed he shows up.
If he is not there by 10am ring him from yet another friend's phone.
Good luck

[Jac Newcastle]

Suzie , do you know where he lives? If so follow him to his next job.... knock on the door. Ask the owner if you can speak to the painter inside and explain that you have paid him but he hasnt finished your house. He will not want the bad press! Do it once... it may rattle his cage....do it twice he will get the message!

[Suzie]

good news the painter has shown up. 3 hours late but here is here and working.Now if I can just get him to finish the job.
I did ask him for his home phone number, in case I can't reach him on his mobile. Or more likely he doesn't answer his mobile.
Anyway some progress and maybe he will stay & finish it now. Thanks for everybody's suggestions and support.
My big tip is don't pay until the job is completely finished.

[Suzie]

Well it has taken 10 days to finish what should have been finished in 2 days but the painter has finished.Thanks to everyone's help & support.
I won't be recommending him to any friends