Handyman invoice surprises Detroit homeowner

Published on May 1, 2008

Shock and awe

COMPLAINT: Joyce Von Drehle, Troy, Mich.

"I had handyman Ray Miller perform various repairs on my vacant apartment. He worked off and on for two months. Most of the work was satisfactory, but I had a problem with his billing. The materials cost $107 and the labor was $2,003. The bill included a general list of work performed but no breakdown of time spent on the job.

"I asked him for another copy, which he provided. I saw that he charged for materials I provided and for work not performed. We had a meeting in which he said that I was attacking his integrity and he threatened me with small claims court. He said if I asked him to break down the bill further, he would charge me for the time it took. I've already paid $800."

DESIRED RESOLUTION: "I want the bill broken down according to dates, hours and jobs - without being charged extra."

RESPONSE: Ray Miller, owner-operator, Ray Miller Handyman

"The primary job was to replace sections of rotted bathroom flooring. Everything went well and I received many compliments [from the member]. When she received the final bill, everything changed drastically. We met to review the invoice. She made insinuations I overcharged her and indicated she wouldn't pay, so I suggested it would be resolved in court.

"We reviewed my log of days and hours worked, purchases made, and daily progress. When asked, I provided the day's activity. She finally stated 'I'll accept your invoice' and we agreed to payment. My only mistake was not giving her weekly updates on accumulated charges, which would have eliminated her sticker shock."

STATUS: Resolved