Dispute Over CNY 10,809 for Roof Tiles Resolved in Court

A dispute over unpaid roof tiles led to a court judgment in favor of the plaintiff. The plaintiff, Mr. Sun, sought payment of CNY 10,809 from the defendant, Mr. Zhang, for tiles delivered in 2011. Mr. Zhang had made a partial payment but failed to pay the remaining balance. The court ruled that Mr. Zhang must pay the outstanding amount plus court costs.

The case background involved a sale of roof tiles. In July 2011 according to the lunar calendar, Mr. Sun delivered 20,245 flat tiles at CNY 0.79 each and 68 ridge tiles at CNY 12 each to Mr. Zhang’s residence in Eastern China City. The total amount due was CNY 16,809. Mr. Zhang issued a receipt on September 22, 2011, acknowledging the delivery and the total. Later, on September 27, 2011, he paid CNY 6,000, leaving a balance of CNY 10,809. Despite repeated requests, Mr. Zhang did not pay the remaining sum.

During the court hearing, Mr. Sun presented the receipt as evidence. The receipt itemized the quantities and prices, and noted the partial payment of CNY 6,000. Mr. Zhang was properly summoned by the court but did not appear or submit a defense. The court accepted the evidence as authentic, relevant, and lawful. Since Mr. Zhang failed to appear, he was deemed to have waived his procedural rights.

The court found that a valid sales contract existed between the parties based on the receipt and the delivery of goods. Mr. Zhang had received the tiles and was obligated to pay the full purchase price. His partial payment did not discharge the remaining debt. The court held that Mr. Zhang’s failure to pay the balance violated Mr. Sun’s lawful rights. According to relevant law, the buyer must pay the price for goods received.

The legal analysis centered on contract law principles. The receipt constituted a written acknowledgment of the agreement and the debt. Under the Contract Law, a seller is entitled to payment upon delivery. Since Mr. Zhang had accepted the tiles, he was liable for the outstanding amount. The court also noted that the defendant’s absence did not prevent a default judgment. The claim was reasonable and lawful, and the court ordered payment within five days of the judgment’s effective date.

The case serves as a straightforward example of a buyer’s obligation to pay for goods received. The court ordered Mr. Zhang to pay CNY 10,809 plus court costs of CNY 35. If payment is delayed, interest will accrue at double the standard rate. This judgment reinforces the importance of honoring contractual commitments. Practical note: sellers should always obtain written receipts and document partial payments.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.