I recently hired a contractor to install a new subfloor and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) tiles in my bathroom. I provided all the materials needed for the job, but during the installation, the contractor accidentally broke three tiles and ended up one tile short. He claimed he couldn't afford to get replacements, so I went out and purchased a new box myself, which cost me $60, to keep the project moving along. Now he's invoiced me for the entire project, including labor, but I'm wondering if I should expect him to deduct the cost of the replacement tiles from that final invoice since his mistake caused the need for the extra tiles. What are others' experiences with this kind of situation? Am I wrong to think I shouldn't have to pay for the additional materials?
7 Answers
You really should always buy more materials than needed, especially with flooring projects. Contractors often add a little extra to cover issues like this. It sounds like you'll need to cover the cost yourself since it was your decision to supply the materials. Just a hard lesson learned!
It’s fairly common for customers to underestimate their material needs. People often don’t account for things like breakage or miscuts. If you’re the one supplying the tiles, it’s really your responsibility to ensure you have enough. So I think the cost falls on you here.
You’re expecting a bit much if you want him to absorb the cost of those broken tiles. It’s pretty much accepted that mistakes happen, and materials can get damaged. Also, waiting for you to fetch more tiles likely cost him time, too!
It seems like you might not have ordered enough tile to start with. A good rule of thumb is to buy at least 10% extra to cover breakage and mistakes. Yeah, it’s $60, but now you’ve got some spare tiles for future repairs. Just something to consider before ordering materials next time!
You sound like you might be a tough client! But for anyone dealing with tile, buying extra is pretty much a must. It can save a lot of headaches if something goes wrong. So if it was less than 10% that was broken, this one's on you!
Totally get your point! Seems like I have to be smarter about buying materials next time.
In general, it’s always recommended to buy at least 10% more when dealing with flooring to cover for waste or damages. Even if the contractor made an error, as the one providing the materials, the extra cost typically falls on you. Just how things work in this line of work!
Honestly, the situation leans towards being your responsibility since you purchased the materials. Typically, when you handle the supplies, you should account for extras due to breakage. The contractor may not have been at fault here, as it’s pretty standard to have a buffer for tiles.
Fair point! I appreciate all the advice I’m getting here.