Our car broke down and the garage picked it up. That’s all they were asked to do but they proceeded to repair it without our permission or advising us. We complained and their response was to offer to waive the tow charge. We contacted the Citizens Advice Bureau then Trading Standards, and the garage eventually came back and said it was our word against theirs. We have declared the car as SORN to save road tax, but don’t know where to go from here.

You can take the garage to court for delivery of the vehicle as they are holding it unlawfully (don’t go straight to court, get a solicitor to do a strong letter). The garage might counterclaim that you are due the repair cost, and you would need to rehearse your history to the sheriff. It may be your word against theirs, but that would be enough if you are regarded as credible and reliable.

I'm working in a care home, six weeks ago I was given a conditional offer of employment from the council which I really want, however a conditions is a satisfactory reference from my employer. I asked my manager if she would do the reference which she agreed to do. Last Monday the council told me they still haven't received it. I contacted ACAS and was told they have no obligation to give me a reference which I understand but this now means I won't get my job with the council.

All I can do is suggest that you go back to the potential new employer and tell them the whole story, that as a result you have no control over the giving or not giving of a reference by the current company and see if they would take a reference from another party – perhaps someone else you have worked for or a professional representative of your governing body. seek a meeting with the director of your employer as the refusal to give a reference is unfair and unusual.

I worked with a firm that is moving premises. In the new office, the hours are different, and unsuitable for me. Can I do anything?

If you have not agreed the variation your employer is in breach of contract, and if you do not accept the changes (whether or not your boss has offered any extra payment or benefit to compensate), you will be treated as having been constructively dismissed. It is then a question of whether the employer has acted reasonably. But check your contract as well, as it may give the employer the right to vary conditions.

I rent out a flat and got a demand from the downstairs neighbour for a large bill for painting his ceiling, saying a leak from my flat had caused water damage. This is the first I have heard of it, and I am reluctant just to pay his bill.

You’re right to be wary. Demand evidence and ask why he didn’t contact you when the damage took place. And why isn’t he using his insurance. Anyone whose property is damaged by water ingress has a duty to mitigate losses and not just better themselves at your expense. If he can’t prove you had a faulty pipe or whatever, he has no claim.