I recently hired a carpenter to change the window trim in my kitchen. There was one window that still had the old trim, which was mismatched with the others. I sent him clear pictures of the window I wanted to match, so I thought everything was set. However, when he completed the job, he claimed the trim was too short, but I pointed out it was installed too high. Now my window still doesn't match the rest, and he left his tools at my house. He even messaged me about picking them up. I want to know how to ask him to come back and fix the window properly. I'm okay with covering the costs for new materials if necessary. Also, if he refuses to fix it, is it wrong for me to just leave his tools outside since I originally brought them in for safekeeping?
3 Answers
Make sure you have a plan! If he doesn’t come back to fix it, consider holding the tools until he agrees to rectify the issue, but don't bank on it. If he’s truly no good, looking for someone else may save you from future headaches. And leaving the tools outside? That’ll make it clear you’re serious about wanting them off your property, so I’d say go for it if necessary.
Yeah, leaving his stuff outside might get him motivated to respond!
Trimming doesn’t usually take long for a pro, so when he comes to pick up his tools, it’s worth asking if he can take care of the trim while he's at it. Just mention that it doesn’t match and keep the conversation light. If he sees it too, he might feel inclined to fix it without too much pushback. If he refuses, then it might be better to just let him get his tools and find someone more reliable for the job.
That's solid advice! Just make sure you’re polite but firm. If he says no, then it’s time to look for someone else.
Yeah, and it’s not worth burning bridges if you can avoid it. Professional reputations matter!
It sounds like you've got a tough situation! This carpenter messed up and isn't showing commitment to fix it. One option is to be straightforward with him about the job needing correction. Consider saying something like, "I noticed the trim doesn't match the other windows as discussed. Can you come back and fix it? I’ll cover the cost for new materials if needed." If he’s doesn't respond well or refuses to fix it, you might want to leave his tools outside and move on to someone else. Just remember to document everything for your records.
Yeah, he's already shown he can't deliver, so it might be best to let someone else handle it. But be polite when reaching out—it's always good to stay civil.
Absolutely! Nobody wants bad blood, but you've given him enough chances already. Just be clear about what you expect.

Exactly! Sometimes you just need to cut your losses and move on, especially if he isn't coming back to fix things.