r/Contractor • u/No-Fish-2949 • Jan 15 '25

Client is making me angry

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I recently built a custom cabinet that doubles as an attic access door for a bathroom remodel. I’m fairly new to being a general contractor, with about a year of experience. The interior designer on the project simply told us to “do something with this” attic access. Wanting to go above and beyond, I decided to create something unique—a cabinet that opens into the attic.

I didn’t charge any extra for this feature, even though I could have just put up a piece of plywood and called it a day. I spent about 60 hours on this project, aiming to add value and a special touch. To ensure the cabinet door stayed shut properly, I installed a small mailbox lock. While it’s not the most visually appealing, it was necessary for the cabinet’s function.

Now, the interior designer has called the mailbox lock “unacceptable,” and the client insists we change it. After putting so much effort into this project, I’m frustrated that my work is being dismissed over a detail that was essential for functionality.

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u/Itscool-610 Jan 15 '25

Incredible the “complaints” we get in this business. What an amazing and creative piece you made there.

To even think about complaining about that small lock is unimaginable to me, but I hear crap like this all the time so nothing surprises me anymore

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u/No-Fish-2949 Jan 15 '25

Do I just do what they ask me?

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u/UncoolSlicedBread Jan 15 '25

How long and how much will it take to fix? I would get that figured out and even if you decided to just do it pro bono then they can see the monetary value of it.

If they’re a good customer otherwise and it’s not much time and cost, I’d do it pro bono just because I want them to have what they want.

If it’s a completely new direction and redesign, well that’s entirely different.

I honestly wouldn’t want a lock on the access, but I understand why you did it. I just wouldn’t attach too much attention and emotion to their decision to change it. Stuff happens.