Topsy

Hi, Having never gone as far as having a house extension built before, I tried to research the subject carefully. After successfully obtaining planning permission I then picked my building contractor with care, utilising one which specialises in traditional building methods. A neighbour also recommended them and I saw evidence of a high-spec build. However, a few days after we had signed a JCT contract (I had a budget which the builder knew he had to keep below), the builder very casually mentioned to me that he had “forgotten” to add the VAT to the fixed price quote!!!!! As you can imagine I hit the roof ......WTF???!! Quickly realising that he was already in breach of contract but knowing that I wanted to go ahead with the build I immediately sought to compromise and offered to meet him halfway. He declined, stating he was barely breaking even. To say that I feel completely cheated is an understatement. Is there any advice as to what to do now please? I felt that I had to forge ahead with this builder, especially during this very awkward year we’re all experiencing. I now realise that he is experiencing traumatic personal issues which I empathise with but it is clearly affecting his professionalism. On another matter I had very adamantly pointed out exceptionally bad drainage issues at my property, fully expecting him to have taken this into consideration at the costings stage. Alas, no and I have now just been hit with a further £4000 to cover this!!!!!! i am now faced with taking out a mortgage simply to cover his appalling oversights!! Any advice would be welcome, thank you.