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Emergency

Contractor's invoice much higher than the cost estimate?

The cost estimate was 800 euros, the invoice comes in over 1,300 euros, without anyone warning you? A cost estimate is not entirely binding, but the contractor must report a significant overrun in good time.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

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Your chances of getting your money back

A cost estimate is an expert estimate, not a binding fixed price. Small deviations are possible. But if a 'significant' overrun looms, the contractor must point this out to you without delay (§ 650 BGB).
If they failed to give this notice, you can terminate the contract and/or are only obligated to pay to the extent that you had to expect in good faith. You do not simply have to accept a gross overrun without warning.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Compare

    Compare the cost estimate and the invoice item by item: where and why does it deviate (material, hours, additional work)?

  2. 2

    2. Check the notice

    Were you warned about the extra costs and did you agree? Without an announcement, the overrun is contestable.

  3. 3

    3. Contest in writing

    Contest the overrun in writing, pay the undisputed part and withhold the disputed amount for now.

  4. 4

    4. Demand an itemization

    Request a verifiable, detailed breakdown of the actual services.

How to spot the scam

  • No advance warning despite clear extra costs
  • Flat-rate additional items without a comprehensible justification
  • Hours or material far above the estimate without proof

Frequently asked questions

Is a cost estimate binding?

Not like a fixed price: it is an expert estimate. Small deviations are permissible. But if a significant overrun looms, the contractor must warn you without delay (§ 650 BGB). Without this warning, the extra claim is contestable.

How much overrun do I have to accept?

There is no fixed percentage limit; case law often assumes a 'significant' overrun from about 15 to 20 percent. But what matters above all is whether you were warned in good time. Pay the undisputed part and withhold the disputed amount until it is clarified.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.