ᐅ Poor Window Installation – Should You Hire an Expert?

Hello

Unfortunately, it turned out that the window installer made significant mistakes.

The side parts of the window sill were cut off, and no sealing tape was installed.

I gave him the opportunity to make corrections. He did so, but in my opinion, not completely.

Now it’s a case of one statement against the other.

I have documented everything in writing and taken many photos.

So, what are the next steps?

I am considering hiring an independent expert.

There probably is no other way when it’s a case of "one person’s word against another’s." If he accepts the expert's report: fine. If not, consult a specialist construction lawyer. Otherwise, it’s pointless.

We experienced our contractor Heinz von Heiden as being largely indifferent to the defects described by the expert. Even expert criticisms from construction reports were sometimes simply covered up without correction, despite promises of rework. For example, in the guest bathroom, we opened the wall frame, completed the missing pipe insulation ourselves, and then closed it up again. Based on our experience, it seemed likely that no one would have fixed it otherwise. The next working day, the wall was plastered over.

If we had hired an additional expert, it would have been a waste of money: an expert appointed by one party holds no value in court. Therefore, in my personal opinion, one should immediately start exclusively with legally enforceable actions. Setting deadlines by registered mail is part of this, as is involving a specialized attorney.

Best regards,
Gabriele

Okay. Thanks for your feedback.

I am in the process of finding a specialized lawyer. Everything else no longer makes sense.

I am now faced with the decision to stop the construction work on the façade.

Of course, there will be costs due to the scaffolding.