Working as a subcontractor plasterer on site. Informing my superiors that the brickwork was completely out and to plaster round windows, door frames etc would not be possible because there was nothing to grip on to. Being told just do it. Carried out what I was told to do even though it was next to impossible to make good the edging around the door frame/windows etc. Then being told work was not up to standard and that it would have to be redone. Explaining again about the brick work being hugely out, not straight and shoddy. Offered to re plaster for free, losing days on days of money. This happened for a period of months so effectively I was working for nothing and although I kept telling my superiors about the building works they kept telling me to plaster the walls best I could. Now after months of not being paid what I should have been paid, being given no prices etc I have been presented with a bill for scaffolding because of works having to be redone etc and they say they will sue me if I do not pay. What rights do I have and what do I do? I have a good reputation and take pride in my work but this is all wrong.

Present a bill for ALL the hours of work and re-work, and say that you will sue them if unpaid.
If they file small claims, counterfile.
But I'm not sure what it will get either one of you. I don't see how they can force you to pay for scaffolding. They sound like desperate contractors who took on a job for too low a bid, or who do this sort of thing routinely to make a profit.
I'm sorry you were taken like this, and continued to allow it to happen. They knew they had you when they first hired you without a contract.
You have to fight fire with fire now.

Thank you so much for your reply. I suppose I knew the first time I offered to redo the work that I should have stuck to my guns and told them to get the brickwork right first. I believe you are right and thank you again - much appreciated.