web designer won't edit or give me access to site

carolem · February 18th, 2008, 11:40 AM

I have started my own thread on this topic.
My designer is very slow at doing things and rarely replies to emails. He begrudges making any changes to my site.
I think he may disappear soon.

He designed the site, bought the domain name and kept it anonymous and hosts the website.
I had an informal arrangement with him to build the site and, being new, I thought I could edit myself.
He says that only he is allowed to edit the site.
My question is that if what he says is correct and he won't hand over any tools eg. password etc, then is my site worthless?
Can I get someone else to host it who can give me access?

If the designer hasn't completely disappeared then am I struck with him?
It would apear that my website is worthless unless I can make some amendments.
I need your advice please.

Thanks.

welshstew · February 18th, 2008, 11:46 AM

first, have you paid him for the work? if so then legally it is yours, you have paid for a service and he is not supplying it to you.

can you post a link to your site so I can take a look.

thanks

Rob · February 18th, 2008, 11:57 AM

If everything is informal and you have signed no contract, then sadly you are in a tricky situation.

I would have your lawyers talk to him ASAP. If the domain name is a company name and you can show you have been trading by it (and that he hasnt) then you will have a case.