I know of some people who had building work carried out, plus some of the posters on this forum. Not a single one had an experience that was not very stressful at least. All building work has some stress, but the level of stress I have heard about from the people I know are another level and literally all are as a result of builders.

I am not sure why this happens. Could it possibly be because of builders under charging for work carried out (employing by more demands by their client)? And so they need to push back on things, delaying, lose interest?

I think builders see their clients as cash machines so they over promise under deliver and expect the client to cough up more cash. Others literally don't give a shit and take your money and do little work sometimes just run off with the money.

It is entirely unregulated and legal action is likely a wasted effort. All one can do is give out a bad reputation of the builder so no one will want to hire them.

The optimal solution seems to be to never undertake building work ever, unless very necessary and even then just stick to small jobs and only go with someone you know you can trust.

Every time you engage in an activity that causes stress, it’s essential to find effective ways to replenish your energy and restore balance. This could involve incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or physical activities like walking or yoga into your daily routine. Additionally, ensuring you’re getting enough restful sleep and maintaining a healthy diet is crucial. Engaging in hobbies or activities that bring you joy can also serve as a great stress reliever. By actively managing stress and taking time to recharge, you can better maintain your overall well-being and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Recently, I decided to quit my job due to the overwhelming stress and instead focus on learning web design. I’m excited to dive into this new field and build skills that not only empower me creatively but also provide a healthier work-life balance moving forward.

Reminds me of a plumber that a possible new builder we were talking to sent around to discuss remaining plumbing work. He came and we had a good discussion as I pointed out the further work needed to complete the plumbing and the issues left by the original plumber. He said he could do a quote. I sent him a list of the works required. No quote arrived after the 2 weeks he had said it would take, so started to gently and very politely chase at curteous intervals, via email, and after 4 weeks by calling. He then failed to provide anything in the timeline he had given me on speaking by phone and I continued to send a gentle reminder. Then I raise with the builder, then I call the plumber but get no answer and leave messages. Whatever time of day I call he never picks up. 8/9 weeks no quote.
Someone suggested calling him from a landline. He answered immediately first time, very surprised it was me, said he could still do a quote. I told him no thank you I don't employ people that lie and block calls from their customer mobile number.

I honestly don't know who these ****ing people are - they seem to enjoy treating people like shit on purpose. If he didn't want the job, or was no longer interested a 2 minute text message would have done it, but no they would rather piss on you for weeks and months. Even when a builder has asked them to assist.

An update, and a question...

Some of you may recall from my posts above that I went through something of a nightmare involving the renovation / extension of the property that was my family home and into which I (finally) moved last year. The builder who took my money under false pretences, and abandoned the project has been the subject of an investigation led by Trading Standards, as well as ongoing insolvency proceedings. Several other clients were similarly impacted.

I've been informed by Trading Standards, that while there was evidence supporting a court case and possible custodial sentence, they have decided not to pursue the matter further due to lengthy backlogs in the court system, and because jail time would interfere with his ability to earn a living, and therefore pay compensation to clients. Instead they have decided to accept a "formal undertaking" that he will not be a director of another company for at least 5 years and will set up "payment plans" with those affected. However they note that any compensation is subject to him being able to work (he has a history of 'mental health problems') and the resolution of the insolvency process.

On the plus side, he has recently sold a property for a 7 figure sum, so clearly there is some money, somewhere. But I can't help feeling that a "formal undertaking" is meaningless, and that I have been shafted once again, this time by the system. There is no indication of how (or even if) the undertaking will be enforced. I'm thinking I would have preferred him to go to prison, as the chances of getting any money back remain low.

I'm wondering if anyone else has any knowledge or experience of a 'formal undertaking' and how they are enforced (if at all)?

To end on a positive note, despite being very significantly out of pocket, I now have a lovely home, having salvaged the project with the aid of a good project manager, and some decent builders - they do exist!

Do u have access to legal advice with your home insurance ?