Renovations to an elderly council tenant's home looked like they had been done by a school woodwork class, it is claimed.

David Levy, 59, criticised tradesmen for causing a mess and leaving gaps in plastering while they installed a new kitchen at his 86-year-old mother Anice’s home in Billet Road, Walthamstow.

Work at Mrs Levy’s home by council contractors Osborne began on April 15.

However, Mr Levy said he had to constantly chase subcontractors to fix faults on behalf of his mother, who was admitted to hospital during the course of the work.

Mr Levy said: “It is driving me crazy, I just want the work done, I do not want to keep arguing with everyone.

“The work was not professional at all – some of it looked like they had let a school woodwork class in here at play time.

“I think they have got 250 houses to do. It is lucky my mum has me. How many other people might be on their own if something like this happens?”

On one occasion, Mr Levy photographed a subcontractor balancing on a tin of paint at the top of a step ladder.

In another incident, paint was left in a black sack outside Mrs Levy’s home, leaking onto the floor and causing a permanent stain.

A Waltham Forest council spokesman said: “We are aware of Mr Levy’s dissatisfaction with the kitchen refurbishment and we are working to resolve the issues.

“It is disappointing that the work was not completed to an acceptable standard and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.

“We have been in touch with Mr Levy and will be visiting the property again today to address the issues raised.”

Osborne said the majority of faults had now been fixed and its representatives were due to meet with Mr Levy to address any other issues.

An Osborne spokesman said: “Since works started, we attended the property regularly and also attended a meeting on April 25 requested by Mr Levy.

“The rubbish was removed on April 27 and on that day we also replaced the plasterer as the quality of his work was not up to standard.

“After this meeting our site manager and customer liaison officer visited the property twice daily to monitor the situation and quality of works.”

The firm has also asked its sub-contractor to remove the worker caught balancing on a ladder from its sites “with immediate effect”.

A spokesman added: “We take health and safety very seriously and that is inappropriate behaviour which we do not tolerate.

“Further talks will be held with our operatives and subcontractors to reinforce all Health and Safety aspects.”