Late payment letter for carpenters and joiners (UK)
Chase an unpaid joinery invoice calmly and professionally. Choose the reminder stage, check the wording and download the letter.
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Not legal advice. This letter is a polite payment reminder. It does not add interest or make legal claims. For your rights when a business customer pays late, see GOV.UK: late commercial payments.
When joinery invoices stall
On bespoke work, late payment often follows a small disappointment. A door that catches slightly, a gap where a unit meets an uneven wall, or a finish that isn't quite what the customer pictured. Most of these take an hour to put right. Ask before you chase, because fixing a snag is usually faster than arguing about the balance.
Sometimes the customer is simply waiting for the decorator to finish before they "sign off" the job in their head. A friendly reminder with your bank details solves that.
Choose your reminder
- First reminder: friendly, assumes it was missed, and gives a new pay-by date.
- Second reminder: gives the number of days overdue and offers a payment plan for larger amounts.
- Final reminder: firm and polite, for customers who haven't replied.
Use the extra message box to mention anything specific, for example "I've adjusted the wardrobe doors as you asked on Tuesday."
Builders and kitchen companies
If you fitted kitchens or did second fix for a builder or kitchen company, chase the business that hired you, not the homeowner. GOV.UK explains when you can claim statutory interest and compensation on late commercial payments. This letter doesn't add either and isn't legal advice.
Next time
For bespoke work, take a deposit to cover materials, and agree in your quote that the balance is due on completion. That way you're never owed the whole job at the end.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take back units I fitted if I'm not paid?
No. Don't try to remove installed work. Get advice if a debt isn't paid.
The customer wants a change before paying. What should I do?
If it's a snag, fix it. If it's a new request, quote for it separately.
How soon should I send a reminder?
A few days after the due date is fine.