A chimney someone walled off and forgot about. That is the house equivalent of hiding a body and then just... living your life on top of it. Funny part is the damper plate from 1887 probably works better than half the stuff they sell at the hardware store now. Bet the homeowner starts telling everyone they bought a historic property with "original features." Next thing you know they will want it as a selling point and a tax write off.

Honestly, that is brutal. I’ve been in that exact spot and it makes your blood boil, especially when you’re already sweating over a pour and deadlines. People hear what they want to hear, and that “mentioned in passing” line is such a classic move to guilt you into paying. The way I shut it down without going nuclear is to say, “Hey, I appreciate you thinking ahead, but if it’s not on a signed sheet, it didn’t happen. Next time, shoot me a quick text before you start and I’ll confirm in writing.” It puts the ball back in their court, makes them do the paperwork, and you don’t have to call them a liar to their face. Honestly, keeping it about the process, not their intentions, saves the relationship and saves your wallet.