A homewoner is nearing the end of a reno and is at a stand-off with the general contractor over the need to open up a wall for inspection. The structural engineer is refusing to sign-off on the project until a wall is opened so a welding can be inspected. According to the homewoner’s contract, walls must be opened by the contractor if requested by the engineer. If the work was done correctly then the homeowner pays the cost of closing up the wall — if there are problems then general contractor shoulders the costs.

The general contractor is refusing to open the wall and instead is suggesting another engineer who will approve the work sight unseen, but for an unknown fee. The name of the new engineer will only be provided when the homeowner releases the remaining amount of the general contractor’s fee, about $25,000. What should the homewoner do?

Please chime in with any advice.

[forumTopic id=”general-discussion:gc-hell”]


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