Abandoned jobs left us massive bill to put right

A MAN who fell victim to cowboy builders was left almost £270,000 out of pocket after having to fix the damage caused to his home.

- By Lotti O'Brien

Solicitor Michael Renouf, 70, from Winchester, Hampshire, hired a builder for a series of internal and external works, including extensions and window fittings.

He and his partner selected the builder because his quote was slightly cheaper than others, and because he promised to finish the job without needing to live onsite.

In autumn 2023, they paid a 50% deposit and an advance of £13,000 for new windows, which were due to arrive in December.