Client doesn’t pay for my services

Question

As a trade person, what do you usually do if a client doesn't respond after receiving the invoice? My painting job is finished, and I sent the invoice to them the day after completion, but they neither responded nor paid. I sent a reminder text after 3 days, but they still seem to be ignoring me. Just to mention, this is the second invoice for our service, and they paid the first one on time.

Craig · Accepted Answer

It is summer holiday time and they might be away. Don't go too hard too early :) If they are at home, camp on their front door step. If they show no intention of paying, threaten small claims court.

Jason · Answer

I've personally never had a none payer. If invoices and phone calls/text/ messages haven't worked. I'd go around to the property, and ask for payment. If that doesn't work, threaten small claims court, and if that still doesn't work begin small claims proceedings

Tom · Answer

Written letter of Final Reminder that they have 7 days before it will be taken further, down a legal route.

There is someone on Decorators Forum UK on Fb, that deals with these things and has helped a lot of trades get what they are rightfully due. I suggest you get in touch with him.

Daniel · Answer

Get in touch with Jef Newsam he’s in DFUK and dealing with these people.

Tim · Answer

Send a reminder in writing giving them up to two weeks from invoice date stating that there may be an increment of say 10% for late payment if not paid by then. If no response, send an increased invoice on that date. If still no response, you have the option of small claims court.

Paul · Answer

You must give them a time frame on your invoice for how long they have to pay. If that time has passed and they aren’t responding then you must knock on the door. After that if they aren’t paying then it’s up to you. You can try taking them to court or act like a bailiff. Most people will pay if you tell them you are going to do something. Inside paint jobs are hard because you can’t get back in to do anything so you need to be smart. Just remember you worked for that money so they are stealing

Justin · Answer

A visit in person may be the answer or small claims court

Nik · Answer

Hi. I have what i call a service agreement which the customer signs before work is started.

It includes a information on payment which says:

Payment is due within 24-hours of work completion.
Late payments are subject to a 20% charge of the initial quote.

I haven't had anyone not pay me on time since i've started doing this.

Hope this helps.

Mark · Answer

Hello,
I've been in business for over twenty years; and at first, I was caught out by this poor interaction from several clients. At first, it is important your messages are getting through and that nothing has happened on their end which has taken over their immediate response for eg. bereavement. Secondly, ensure they are happy with the work (knock on the door and find out), be assertive, and still light and friendly.
LASTLY, take action through the small claims court and send them a letter (NOT EMAIL) stating your actions and why, give time to pay, and send details of how to pay. I give seven days only. Depending on the amount my last course of action is to sell the debt to a collection agency you will receive 50% of the invoice and then you forget about it.
I hope this helps.
Mark

Joe · Answer

Get Some Insurance that will do this on your behalf/ if they don't pay you after the time you set out on the terms of the contract then your within your rights to take them to court. county court judgments no one wants.

Client doesn’t pay for my services

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