Question

What can I do? I bought my house 6 yrs ago. Its in the contract, and I paid, to have the wallpaper removed before painting. Now, what I thought was chipping paint is actually wallpaper starting to lift. They painted over it. Should I contact them?

Answer 1

Yes, you should definitely contact the contractor or the company that handled the wallpaper removal and painting when you purchased your house. Since you paid for the wallpaper removal as part of the contract, and they didn't properly remove it and instead painted over it, it's essential to address the issue and seek a resolution.

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Gather evidence: Take photographs of the areas where the wallpaper is starting to lift and any other visible issues. This documentation will help you explain the problem clearly when you contact the contractor.

2. Review the contract: Revisit the contract you signed when purchasing the house and double-check the details related to the wallpaper removal. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what was agreed upon and the responsibilities of the contractor.

3. Contact the contractor or company: Reach out to the contractor or the company that did the work and explain the situation. Provide them with the evidence you gathered and express your concerns about the improper handling of the wallpaper removal.

4. Request a resolution: Clearly state what you would like to be done to rectify the situation. This could include proper wallpaper removal and repainting or any other appropriate remedy.

5. Negotiate a solution: Be open to negotiation and finding a fair resolution that satisfies both parties. This may involve revisiting the work and having them correct the issue or agreeing on a refund or partial refund if a redo is not feasible.

6. Keep communication in writing: It's essential to communicate with the contractor in writing (email is often best) to have a record of your conversations and agreements.

7. Consult legal advice: If the contractor is unresponsive or unwilling to address the issue, you may consider seeking legal advice to understand your options and rights in this situation.

Remember, as a homeowner, you have the right to expect work done according to the agreed-upon terms and quality standards. If the wallpaper was supposed to be removed before painting, and it was not done properly, it is reasonable to seek a resolution. Acting promptly and providing clear evidence will strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of a satisfactory outcome.