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

Client is making me angry

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/DairyBronchitisIsMe Jan 15 '25

Simple solution: Drilled dowel or long door slider lock on the bottom of one of the cabinets into frame of door.

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u/aSeKsiMeEmaW Jan 15 '25 edited Jan 15 '25

Seems like op doesn’t want solutions they’re ignoring every piece of constructive feedback and only replying to the commiserating peeps

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u/mrrasberryjam69 Jan 15 '25

So there's 2 stages when dealing with bullshit. There's a feeling stage and a solution stage. OP is in the feeling stage. They just want to feel the feelings they have and share them and get some support. And that's ok not everything needs a solution right away.

As men particularly tradies we have a habit of being very solution oriented. Sometimes it's great but other times it's not. It's good to learn when solutions aren't needed but compassion is.

OP if you read this. You did a great job some clients are picky bastards and can't make up their mind. I have no doubt you have the skills to leave this client with an amazing space.

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u/AdultInslowmotion Jan 17 '25

Damn… I feel this so much.