Piano Rebuild Client AWOL

[Stephen Grattan]

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Hi Terry,
   
  Get any past due and future due funds ( to reassemble the piano and needed parts) in advance and send in writing to her a new contract stating what you are going to do and what warranty you will offer (if any) because the job will not be complete. Do not proceed without receiving a new signed contract from her. I have had this happen twice and it is no fun.  In fact one such problem is occurring now. Customer moved to Vegas and we have not heard from her in 5 + years !
   
  Steve Grattan

Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com> wrote:
          I've just run into a first for me. Couple years ago I contracted with a local couple (the husband to be specific) to remanufacture their old Baldwin M grand (5'3") - new soundboard, action, finish, etc. The piano was originally purchased new by the woman's grandmother and was handed down to her (read: sentimental value - no other piano will do). They put the first 1/3 of the contract fee up front. I completed building the new soundboard, bridges, ordered parts, etc., etc. The next step was to move on to refinishing - that is when the next installment of funds was due.
   
  I tried to contact them at that point (several months after I started) and was unable to - all phone numbers disconnected, etc - I tried internet searches with no luck. I now learn that the couple got divorced, the woman moved to the Carolinas and the man seems to have disappeared from the face of the earth.
   
  I stopped working on the piano a long time ago because it seemed I did not have a client and roughly 1/3 of the work had been completed.
   
  This morning I get a call from the woman's mother inquiring about the piano. I explained the status and she asked if I could just "put it back together" and that she had no funds that she wished to invest in the piano - but realizes that it may cost something to make it whole again in some minimal fashion. 
   
  So now I'm trying to figure out some sort of solution to this situation. I seems very clear there will not be a "good" solution to this situation (unless, of course, the husband is found and is willing to complete the contract - which mom will try to do - but I'm not going to hold my breath). I only wish to get paid for the work I do to the piano. I do not wish to hold anyone to complete the full scope of contracted rebuilding tasks - that would be best for the piano, but I don't think anyone will want to pay for it. I'm going to figure up a fee for making the piano whole for the least cost. That will be such an awkward solution - new fabulous belly - peeling finish - dull plate - so-so action with chipped/cracked ivory keys. I feel so uneasy about such an end. And I know the lady won't be happy with the piano either.
   
  Does anyone have any constructive thoughts for a least-bad outcome to a situation like this? Maybe there is some avenue/direction that I have not thought of. Thanks.
   
  Terry Farrell
   
   
  


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