We had interlock repair done. We were given a quote for the job.

Labour was 3 guys for 4 days at 10 hours per day. Rate was 2 guys 26.50/hr, 3rd was 15.25/hr.

Total estimate $2730.

The quote included materials and labour. Labour was stated as #of hours and cost per hr. and it was emailed with heading "Quote for Repairs to Steps". The company stated they could write a proper contract as I wanted to know the warranty period. The contract ended up being a hand written note. Basically outlining the balance due when complete.

Because the quote was based on hours of work, I assumed the billing would be as such.

What was quoted as 120 hours ended up being 75 hours, however, we were billed for the total Quote amount which was close to $800. More. Actual time 75hrs, billed for 120 hrs.

Do we have any recourse.

Depends on the exact wording of the paper work.

Normally, same when you have auto work done, the quotes are done, showing hours and material, for a total price.

You pay the quote price, the higher hours of labor, if they do it faster, is their cost savings or additional profit

Normally you will pay the quote amount.
This appears to be normal practice and unless your agreement was merely so much per hour, this is fairly standard

I agree with Fr Chuck: if they billed for the amount quoted, yet did the amount in less time than indicated in the quote, you should pay the bill.


The company stated they could write a proper contract as I wanted to know the warranty period. The contract ended up being a hand written note. Basically outlining the balance due when complete
The problem here, as I understand, is that you didn't get a written warranty. From your spelling of "labour", I'm assuming you are not in the U.S. Generally in the US the UCC applies, and if a warranty is not specified one is implied. It may or may not be the same wherever you are. Before paying the bill, you should request a written warranty.

You also indicate that there was an exchange of e-mail(s). For some reason many people don't seem to understand that an e-mail is a writing, and may form a written contract. Was the warranty period specified in an e-mail?