To start out, this isn't directed at anybody in particular, just a vague "what-if" question.

Say you come to terms with a customizer for a commission, and make a down payment. Along with what you want for your commission, the terms also include a certain time frame for its completion.

Now, what if the custom isn't what you were expecting, or during that time frame, if there is little to no contact, no proof that they're actually working on anything, and you keep getting put off whenever you inquire about it, what is the proper way to request a refund? Would it be a full refund, refund minus the cost of materials, etc?

Again, just a "what-if" scenario.

Thanks.

 

Well, I think partially, it depends on what your intentions are/were. If you commission someone because of their past works and/or portfolio, to a degree you should trust in the artist's judgment and schedule. Sometimes things come up. I've had subcontracts take much longer than I wanted, but I wouldn't want to rush them, not push them in a direction outside their creative mindsets.

However, if you've completely lost tough, or have little communication - and it's not going at all like originally agreed upon, or appearance wise isn't what you both agreed upon, an option would be to get your deposit back. If the project's near completion, it's only fair to the customizer to allow them to finish it. It could be (after all) a very specific idea that would result in only a loss for the customizer.

 

I suppose it all depends on the artist, but I wouldn't put up any money without a clear agreement of expectations, including timeframe. It's not going to be a legal document or anything, but enough that you have a point in which you (as customer) can make demands.

I have a little agreement I do with customers and I can PM that to you if you want. It's not TF related, but you can get the idea. It's to protect me as well, so they understand exactly what they are paying for.