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How to Create a Back Charge

Recover Costs from Subcontractors for Damage or Mistakes

Updated over a month ago

What is a Back Charge?

A Back Charge is used when a subcontractor causes damage or makes a mistake. It ensures the subcontractor responsible pays for fixing it.

For example, if a plumber causes a leak that damages the kitchen cabinets, the cabinetry subcontractor fixes the damage and invoices you. Instead of showing this as a loss on your job budget, you create a Back Charge to recover the cost from the plumber.

Create a Back Charge

Navigate to the relevant Job and open the bill that has been Approved for payment. Click in the top right corner to create.

⚠️The bill must be approved before you can create a back charge.

In the Back Charge screen, choose the subcontractor or supplier you’re issuing it to. Tick the option to email them a copy if needed, and then enter the reason for the back charge.

Use the drop-down menu to select the bill items you want to back charge. Enter the quantity and unit price to calculate the total amount. When you're ready, click. This creates a credit against the selected items in both the Job budget and Xero, and, if selected, sends the invoice directly to the subcontractor.

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