Piano Rebuild Client AWOL

[Stephen Grattan]

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Hi Joe,
   
  Thank you for the good advice !
   
  Steve

Joseph Alkana <josephspiano@comcast.net> wrote:
       
  Steve,
  See my message back to Terry. You, too, are most probably the owner of the piano in question via mechanics lien. Check the state statutes regarding this to see what you must do to perfect the lien at this time. Most states require a posting of intent to dispose of merchandise left un-paid for. Once you are comfortable with satisfying the requirements of the mechanics lien, proceed as though you are the owner and dispose of as you see fit.
  Joseph Alkana RPT
    ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Stephen Grattan 
  To: Pianotech List 
  Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2006 11:03 AM
  Subject: Re: Piano Rebuild Client AWOL
  

  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)&nbs! p;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 work! ing 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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