Additional costs for doubling the roof rafters due to unevenness

Hello everyone,

for insulating our roof (insulation between rafters), I was offered, among other things, doubling the roof rafters as a linear meter position. Now, during the execution of the work, it turned out that the rafters are not as straight and even as was apparently expected. I am being charged for an additional effort of 9 hours + materials (wooden wedges and longer screws) to level out the unevenness. This is a house over 100 years old, where uneven rafters must be expected, and the roof structure was also inspected multiple times beforehand.

Is it legitimate to claim these additional costs?

Matthias

Hello Matthias,

Is it legitimate to claim these additional costs?

The answer to your question should be found in the contract.

Rhenish regards

The following sentence is included in the contract (offer): 'Any additional work that may be required will be discussed with the client before execution.' However, this did not take place, but was carried out, and I was only informed afterwards.

Well ... maybe you weren't available, but the craftsmen were under time pressure or something like that?

As it reads, this extra effort was probably absolutely necessary; in order for the overall picture to be consistent. In old timberwork, surprises can lurk that cannot always be reliably assessed by "visual inspection." How much money are we "talking" about here? Have you already spoken with the drywall installer?

Rhenish regards

My wife's mobile number was known, and she would have been reachable. I do not have a specific amount yet, but as mentioned, it is about a 9-hour report + material. So I estimate that it is about 600 - 700 €.

I would look for a compromise there. But I would first point out that it was not agreed upon. And thus the additional work was actually not approved. In the end, it will probably come down to you meeting in the middle. Because the additional work was also carried out.

PS: We had the same situation with our roof back then. Work was done that was not agreed upon. And we met in the middle.