Dealing with a situation where you feel you have been taken advantage of by a metal building company can be frustrating and challenging. However, don’t worry. I’ve been in the metal building and insulation industry for over 30 years and I know what these dishonest companies don’t want you to know. There are several steps you can take to address the issue, seek resolution, and potentially recoup your losses. Here’s a comprehensive approach:

1. Get together all the Documentation you have received

•  Look Over the Signed Contract: This is your first step. Begin by thoroughly reviewing the contract or agreement you had with the seller. If you haven’t signed anything, there is nothing to worry about, However, if you have, don’t worry too much. Start by looking for any clauses related to disputes, delays, quality of work, and warranty. Understanding your contract is crucial. Dishonest companies will quickly point out any safe havens the contract gives them
• Start Collecting Evidence: Gather up all of the relevant documentation, including emails, texts, contracts, and payment receipts. Often it is not what has been said that counts, it is the evidence that supports your case that counts.

2. Try to Communicate with the Seller

• Get in Touch with the Selling Company: Just because things went sideways after the order, and you seem to be at an impasse, reach out to the seller to discuss your concerns. Many times when cooler heads present themselves, things can get resolved through clear communication.
• Send Seller a Formal Complaint: When communications don’t work, it is time to go to the next stage. That is sending a formal complaint letter or email to the seller. This document may play a major role if things reach court proceedings since it shows the efforts you made. You want to outline your concerns, what you believe was dishonest or unfair, and what you expect as a resolution. Be crystal clear here. If you want a full refund, they state this.

3. Be Open to Mediation or Arbitration

• Mediation Services: You might find this option noted on the contract as a means to resolve any conflicts. This involves a neutral party whose job is to see things from sides and offer a resolution both sides can agree on.
• Arbitration:  If mediation doesn’t work, then arbitration may be needed. This involves an arbitrator who will make a binding decision on the dispute.

4. Courts – Legal Action

• Time to Consult an Attorney: If the stages used thus far have not resolved the issue,  it is time to consult an attorney. It’s best to find an attorney that specializes in contract law. Their job is to provide legal advice.
• Small Claims Court: For less expensive projects, small claims court can be an option. This allows you to pursue legal action without the need for an attorney, although the maximum claim amount varies by jurisdiction.

5. Report to Regulatory Bodies

• Better Business Bureau (BBB): Most companies don’t want a complaint registered with the  BBB. Those complaints stay on file for 3 years. Therefore, letting a company know you will report them, can influence their reactions.

• State Consumer Protection Agency: Your local consumer protection agency may be able to assist you or offer guidance based on the issues at hand.
• Attorney General: If you feel the issue reaches the level of fraud or premeditative deceit, I recommend you contact the attorney general within the state.

6. Review and Online Feedback

• Look into Online forums that post reviews:  Again, companies don’t want bad reports circulating out to the public. Therefore, if you feel cheated, share your experience in online reviews and forums related to construction or metal buildings. This notification can assist other potential customers. We all should warn others of bad businesses.
• Social Media Platforms: This is another source to consider. Let the company know you are willing to do your part in resolving this issue, but you will use all platforms to expose the practices that may impact their behavior.

7. Protect Your Self Upfront in the Future

• Do Your Homework Before Buying: Before something like this occurs again, do your research before buying a metal building.  I can assure you, that bad metal building company practices are usually posted somewhere. Read online reviews, and check a company’s BBB report.
• Get Comprehensive Contracts: Make sure future proposals include detailed features, building specifications, timelines, and terms for dispute.

Wise people realize it is important to stay calm and rational thorough challenging circumstances. This will help to achieve the best possible outcome.  Most of the time, a resolution can be attained without things escalating to legal action.