disgruntled Customers Report Thousands Lost as Beloved Curtain Company Vanishes

Como, Italy – A long-standing and once-trusted curtain company in Como is facing accusations of defrauding customers, with reports of individuals losing anywhere from €300 to a staggering €3,000 due to unfulfilled orders and services. The company, known for over two decades in the region for itS curtain sales and installations, has reportedly ceased all contact with its clientele in recent months, leaving many with unpaid balances and no further recourse.

The windows of the company’s headquarters on Via Turati, once a display of their products, now stand empty, a silent testament to the unfolding situation. The issue first surfaced on social media last month, with a more recent, detailed account published just days ago by Maurizio Viganò.

Viganò explained to the newspaper that he has been awaiting the completion of agreed-upon work since September 2024. After an initial bank transfer of €290 for the assembly of a custom tent, he received no further interaction or service since March, despite repeated attempts to contact the company and even having had workers visit to take measurements.

His experience mirrors that of Ada Cardelli, who also paid a €300 deposit to the Gatti company. “We had already been customers and for us they had done an excellent job two years ago,” she stated. “In March, we asked for a mosquito net to be mounted, they provided a quote and requested a deposit, but then we never saw them again.”

These are not isolated incidents.A multitude of Como residents have taken to social media to share similar stories of awaiting curtains or installation work. Their complaints, often involving advance payments and deposits, detail agreements made for services that were never rendered. While over ten cases have been publicly documented, sources close to the company suggest that as many as twenty customers may be in a similar predicament.

The most ample loss reported so far belongs to Stefano Cavallaro, who paid an upfront deposit of €3,000 in October, representing half the agreed-upon quote for two curtains. He claims the company cited the need to purchase materials. For months, Cavallaro was reportedly given assurances by the owner, Fabio Gatti, that appointments would be scheduled, only for them to be repeatedly postponed. By May, all communication, including messages, had reportedly ceased. The company’s landline number is also disconnected, and no one can be found at the shop.”For a period, there was a new employee who seemed to have been hired for customer support,” Cavallaro recounted. “When I passed by the shop while it was still open, I asked him for clarification, but he didn’t seem to remember me.”

The owner’s alleged evasiveness and the company’s sudden disappearance are suspected to be linked to financial difficulties that may have begun in 2022. Reports indicate that the company has faced challenges in carrying out maintenance work since 2023. Efforts to contact Fabio Gatti for comment have thus far been unsuccessful.

Is a verbal agreement sufficient to protect a craftsman‘s deposit,or is a written contract essential?

Craftsmen Demand return of Deposit After Cat Curtains Vanish

The Disappearing Act: When Custom Curtains Go Missing

The world of bespoke craftsmanship is built on trust. Clients commission unique pieces, often paying a considerable deposit upfront, and rely on the artisan to deliver. but what happens when the finished product – in this increasingly bizarre case, custom-made cat curtains – vanishes, leaving craftsmen out of pocket and demanding the return of their deposit? This isn’t a one-off incident; reports of similar disputes are rising, prompting a debate about deposit protection and the legal rights of both parties.We’ll delve into the specifics of thes unusual cases, explore the legal landscape surrounding deposits for custom work, and offer advice for both homeowners and craftspeople.

Understanding the Deposit: A Legal Outlook

A deposit, in the context of custom work like bespoke curtains or handmade pet accessories, serves as a good-faith gesture and secures the craftsman’s time and materials. Legally, it’s often considered “part payment” rather than a security against damage. However, the terms surrounding the deposit are crucial.

Written Contracts are Key: A detailed contract outlining the scope of work, materials, cost, deposit amount, payment schedule, and cancellation policy is paramount. Verbal agreements are notoriously difficult to enforce.

deposit Amount: There’s no fixed rule for deposit percentages.Common ranges are 25-50% of the total project cost. Excessively high deposits can raise red flags.

Return of Deposit: The contract should clearly state the conditions under which the deposit is refundable (or non-refundable). factors include project cancellation, changes to the scope of work, and, crucially, loss or theft of materials or finished goods.

Consumer Rights: Depending on your location, consumer protection laws may offer additional safeguards. for example, in the UK, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 provides certain protections for consumers commissioning bespoke goods.

The Case of the Vanishing Cat Curtains: Real-World Examples

Several recent incidents have highlighted the vulnerability of craftsmen. One case, reported in Somerset, involved a local seamstress commissioned to create curtains shaped like cats for a client’s feline-themed bedroom. A £300 deposit was paid. the finished curtains were collected by the client, but the seamstress received reports from neighbours that the curtains were displayed publicly, then disappeared. The seamstress is now seeking the deposit back, arguing the client never intended to pay and used the commission as a means to acquire a unique item without full payment.

Another instance, in Yorkshire, involved a woodworker crafting a cat-shaped window frame with integrated curtains. The frame was stolen from his workshop before delivery. While his insurance covered the material cost,he’s facing a dispute with the client over the deposit,as the contract didn’t explicitly address theft prior to handover.

These cases underscore the need for thorough contracts that anticipate potential issues. Custom made curtains are not off-the-shelf items, and unique risks are involved.

protecting Yourself: Advice for Homeowners

Commissioning custom work can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s essential to protect your interests:

1. Thorough Research: Check the craftsman’s reputation, read reviews, and ask for references.
2. Detailed Contract: Insist on a written contract covering all aspects of the project.
3. Deposit Protection: Consider using a deposit protection scheme (where available) or paying via a credit card for added security.
4. Insurance Verification: Ask the craftsman if they have adequate insurance to cover loss or damage.
5. Clear Dialog: Maintain open communication throughout the project.

safeguarding Your Business: Advice for Craftsmen

craftsmen need to proactively protect themselves from financial loss:

1. Robust Contracts: Invest in professionally drafted contracts that address potential risks,including theft,damage,and cancellation. Specifically include clauses regarding obligation for loss before and after handover.
2. Insurance Coverage: Ensure your business insurance covers loss of materials and finished goods, both in your workshop and during transport.
3. Staged Payments: Consider a payment schedule with staged payments tied to project milestones, rather than a large upfront deposit.
4. Proof of Delivery: Obtain signed proof of delivery upon completion of the work.
5. Legal Counsel: Consult with a solicitor specializing in contract law to review your standard contract. Bespoke furniture and handmade items require specific legal considerations.

the Rise in Disputes: Contributing Factors

Several factors are contributing to the increase in these types of disputes:

Increased Demand for Customization: The growing trend towards personalized home décor and unique pet products is driving demand for custom work.

Online Marketplaces: While offering convenience, online platforms can sometimes lack the vetting processes of traditional businesses.

Economic Uncertainty: Financial pressures may lead some clients to seek ways to avoid full payment.

Lack of Awareness: Both homeowners and craftsmen might potentially be unaware of their legal rights and obligations.

Resources and Further Information

* Citizens Advice: [https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/](https://www