What remedies exist for substandard or poor service?
How the answer differs across 6 jurisdictions
IrelandFull article If a service provider in Ireland does substandard work, you have the right to request repeat performance or a price reduction under the Consumer Rights Act 2022.
AustraliaFull article You may be entitled to a repair, replacement, refund, or compensation for the additional damage caused by the mechanic’s poor work, under the Australian Consumer Law.
SingaporeFull article You can file a complaint with the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) or sue in the Small Claims Tribunals — both options are available under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act.
If a service you paid for was performed poorly, you have the right to repeat performance or a price reduction under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
US-New YorkFull article You can sue for breach of contract or negligence, demand repairs or compensation, and file a complaint with the New York Attorney General or NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. You generally have up to 6 years to sue for written contracts.
US-CaliforniaFull article You can demand repairs, withhold payment, sue for damages, or file a complaint with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). You generally have up to 4 years from substantial completion to sue for breach of contract.
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IrelandA service provider did substandard work. What remedies exist?AustraliaA mechanic did a poor job repairing my car and now it has additional damage. What consumer remedies do I have?SingaporeA contractor did substandard renovation work. Where do I complain?
UKI paid for a service that was done poorly. What are my rights?US-New YorkWhat recourse do I have if a home improvement contractor does defective work?US-CaliforniaWhat recourse do I have if a contractor does shoddy work on my home?Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: June 2026.