Find reputable workshops
In order to find good handicraft businesses in the first place, a general internet search can help to filter out dubious offers. “The best source for finding good craftsmen is your own circle of acquaintances. Other companies can be found, for example, in business directories or online portals. It is particularly important to check the future contractual partner in advance,” says Stefanie Kahnert, a lawyer at the consumer center Brandenburg in a press release. Consumers can use the handelsregister.de website to see whether a craft business is registered.
A written agreement is advisable
According to the Lower Saxony consumer advice center, the first thing you should do is make sure that there is a written agreement. Verbal agreements can lead to problems with prices, improvements and legal steps. The consumer advice center recommends obtaining several written cost estimates. Here the craftsman should list all important services including additional costs. But be careful – the preparation of written cost estimates can be subject to a fee.
Cost traps for craftsmen
In addition, there are some cost traps to be considered when doing manual work. According to the NDR, craftsmen can charge a flat rate for the journey or bill to the kilometer. In the case of the latter, the distance actually driven must not be exceeded. There are also rules for working hours. Because this must not be rounded up to half or full hours, so that many companies now bill in six-minute intervals. The craftsman sets the hourly wage himself. It should be noted, however, that this must not be significantly higher than the usual comparative wage. When obtaining offers, it should also be taken into account that there is a possibility that craft businesses will only give the so-called net prices on the phone. However, these do not include VAT and are also not permitted in business with consumers. If something then goes wrong with craft work and spare parts are needed, craftsmen must obtain the consent of the customer. The customer can refuse payment without consent. At the end of the work, consumers often have to sign a time sheet or the invoice. Here, a precise check of the information provided by the customer is essential. If discrepancies are found, nothing should be signed.
Set a deadline for delays
In addition, according to the Lower Saxony consumer advice center, it is important to keep an eye on the progress of the craft work. In the event of delays, the craftsmen can be given a deadline – one to two weeks is usually reasonable. In order to prevent these problems, it can be advisable for larger projects to have a lawyer review the part of the contract.
Tim Adler / Editor finanzen.net
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