Late payment letter for electricians (UK)
Get paid for the rewire, the board change or the EICR without falling out with the customer. Choose a reminder stage 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.
Chasing payment for electrical work
Electricians often get caught out by two kinds of late payer: homeowners who said "I'll transfer it tonight" and forgot, and landlords or agents who are slow to approve invoices. Both usually pay after a clear, polite reminder that shows exactly what's owed and how to pay.
Check your own paperwork first. Did the customer get their certificate? Some people quietly hold back payment because they're waiting for the Electrical Installation Certificate or the Building Regulations notice. If anything is outstanding on your side, send it with the reminder.
How the three reminders differ
- First reminder: friendly, assumes it's been missed, and asks for payment by a new date.
- Second reminder: says how many days overdue the invoice is and offers to agree a payment plan.
- Final reminder: firmer, and says you may need to look at other ways to recover the debt if you don't hear back.
Change the pay-by date to suit you. Seven days is common for a first reminder.
Commercial customers
If you do work for shops, offices or property companies, they're business customers. GOV.UK explains when a business can claim statutory interest and fixed compensation on late commercial payments. This letter doesn't add either. It just asks for the money you're owed.
This is a template, not legal advice. If a debt is large or disputed, get advice before going further.
Frequently asked questions
What if the customer says the work isn't finished?
Find out what they think is missing. If it's a small snag, fixing it is usually the fastest way to get paid. If you disagree, reply in writing and explain what was agreed.
Can I stop the certificate until I'm paid?
Be careful. The certificate is a record of safety testing and the customer may need it. It's usually better to send it and chase the payment separately.
How many reminders should I send?
Usually two or three over about a month. If there's still no reply, think about your next step.