Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Need Help, Having problem w/ Contractor

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Other/Misc
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 21 Jul 2001
Time: 03:53 PM

Comments

It sounds like you hired a "dead-beat" contractor. You may have some remedies, however.

First, where are you located (which state?). Assuming you hired a licensed contractor, you can start by filing a complaint with the contractor's state license board. You can also find out whether there are any other complaints pending against this contractor. Send a certified letter, return receipt requested, to the state, in addition to a duplicate copy to your contractor. In your letter, clearly document the course of events and outline your expectations for job completion. Since this could end up in the courts, put everything in writing so you have a clean paper trail. Also, make sure you have lien releases from all suppliers and subcontractors, otherwise you could be also be stuck with bills from unpaid suppliers and subs.

Filing a complaint is the first step and is often enough to command the contractor's attention. If still no progress ensues, your next alternative is to have an attorney write a demand letter, indicating that unless the project is completed according to a list of reasonable milestones, you have no choice but to sue in court.

Now, if your contractor is bankrupt or financially insolvent, suing may do little good in practice, except to cost you even more time and money.

We recommend working with your state license board for guidance, as laws vary from state to state. Most contractors also have a nominal bond posted of $5-10K, which probably isn't enough to cover the balance of work remaining on your property.

If you discover that your contractor is not licensed, or that the license has lapsed, you're in deeper trouble. In most states, it's illegal to hire unlicensed contractors and you'll have little recourse other than faith that the contractor will eventually follow through on his commitment.

Keep us posted on this one. We're here to help in any way possible.

Builders Websource

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