Use this contractor disputes guide to build a clear demand letter for Fresno.
Fresno Contractor Disputes: Your Complete Guide to Resolving Home Improvement Problems
Hiring a contractor for home improvement work in Fresno should result in quality work completed on time and within budget. Unfortunately, many homeowners find themselves dealing with contractors who abandon projects mid-work, perform shoddy construction, exceed quoted prices without authorization, or disappear after collecting deposits. When these situations arise, California law provides powerful tools to hold contractors accountable and recover your money.
Fresno's housing market has seen significant activity in recent years, with both new construction and renovation of the city's older housing stock. The extreme Central Valley climate, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100 degrees and occasional winter freezes, makes proper construction particularly important. HVAC systems, roofing, weatherproofing, and other systems must be correctly installed to function in these demanding conditions. When contractors cut corners or fail to complete work properly, the consequences for homeowners can be severe.
California's contractor licensing laws and consumer protection statutes provide Fresno homeowners with substantial rights when contractors fail to perform. The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) regulates the industry, requiring licensing for most construction work over $500. Unlicensed contractors face significant penalties, and contracts with unlicensed contractors may be voidable, allowing homeowners to recover all amounts paid. Even licensed contractors must meet professional standards, and violations can result in license discipline, civil penalties, and liability for damages.
This comprehensive guide explains everything Fresno homeowners need to know about resolving contractor disputes. We will cover the California laws that protect your rights, walk you through the process of documenting problems and demanding remedies, explain the critical deadlines you must meet, and outline the powerful legal tools available when contractors refuse to make things right. Whether your contractor abandoned your project, performed defective work, or is demanding payment for unauthorized extras, this guide will help you fight back.
California Contractor Laws: Your Legal Protections
California has developed comprehensive laws regulating contractors and protecting consumers who hire them. Understanding these laws is essential for Fresno homeowners dealing with contractor problems.
Contractor Licensing Requirements:
California Business and Professions Code section 7028 requires contractors to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) for any construction work totaling $500 or more in combined labor and materials. This includes general contractors and specialty contractors in trades like plumbing, electrical, roofing, HVAC, and many others. Operating without a license is a misdemeanor, and unlicensed contractors cannot sue to collect payment for their work.
Contracts with Unlicensed Contractors:
Business and Professions Code section 7031 provides that an unlicensed contractor cannot maintain any action for compensation for work requiring a license. Moreover, section 7031(b) allows homeowners to recover all compensation paid to an unlicensed contractor, regardless of the quality of the work. This powerful remedy means if you paid an unlicensed contractor $20,000, you can potentially recover the full amount even if the work was completed satisfactorily.
Home Improvement Contract Requirements:
Business and Professions Code sections 7150-7168 establish specific requirements for home improvement contracts. Contracts over $500 must be in writing and contain specific disclosures, including the contractor's name, address, and license number; a description of the work to be done; the contract price and payment schedule; approximate start and completion dates; and various consumer notices. The contract must be provided to the homeowner for review, and the homeowner has a three-day right to cancel for contracts solicited at home.
Down Payment Limitations:
California law limits down payments for home improvement contracts. Under Business and Professions Code section 7159.5, contractors cannot require down payments exceeding $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less. Progress payments must be in proportion to the work completed. Contractors who demand excessive down payments are violating the law.
Mechanic's Liens:
California Civil Code sections 8400-8494 govern mechanics' liens, which allow contractors and suppliers to place liens on property for unpaid work. Homeowners should understand these provisions both defensively (to prevent improper liens) and offensively (liens can leverage payment from contractors who owe you). Preliminary notices, release requirements, and lien filing deadlines are complex and important to understand.
The Right to Repair Act:
Civil Code sections 895-945.5, known as the Right to Repair Act or SB 800, establishes standards for residential construction and procedures for addressing defects in new construction. While primarily applicable to new homes, some provisions affect remodeling work. The Act establishes construction standards and pre-litigation procedures that may apply to your situation.
Contractors State License Board Complaints:
The CSLB investigates complaints against licensed contractors and can take disciplinary action including license suspension or revocation. While CSLB cannot directly award you money, a complaint creates an official record, adds pressure on the contractor, and may facilitate resolution. The CSLB also operates an arbitration program for disputes under certain dollar thresholds.
Consumer Protection Statutes:
Beyond contractor-specific laws, general consumer protection statutes apply to contractor transactions. The Consumer Legal Remedies Act (Civil Code sections 1750-1784) prohibits unfair and deceptive practices in consumer transactions. The Unfair Competition Law (Business and Professions Code section 17200) prohibits unlawful, unfair, or fraudulent business practices. Violations can result in damages, restitution, and attorney's fees.
Small Claims Court Jurisdiction:
Fresno County Small Claims Court handles contractor disputes up to $12,500 for individuals. This provides an accessible forum for many contractor disputes without the need for an attorney.
Step-by-Step Guide to Resolving Contractor Disputes in Fresno
Resolving a contractor dispute requires a systematic approach that documents problems, demands remedies, and escalates appropriately when contractors refuse to cooperate.
Before taking any action, create comprehensive documentation of the contractor's failures. Photograph all defective or incomplete work from multiple angles. Include wide shots showing context and close-ups showing specific problems. Video walk-throughs can effectively capture the scope of issues. Document any damage to your property caused by the contractor's work. Note specific contract provisions that were violated. Create a written list of all deficiencies and deviations from the contract.
Check whether your contractor is properly licensed using the CSLB website at cslb.ca.gov. Enter the contractor's name or license number to verify active license status, proper classification for the work performed, bond and insurance status, and any disciplinary history. If the contractor was unlicensed, you may be entitled to recover all amounts paid under Business and Professions Code section 7031(b). This is a powerful remedy that applies regardless of whether the work was satisfactory.
Examine your contract for provisions relevant to your dispute. Note the scope of work description, which defines what should have been done. Review the payment schedule to identify any improper demands. Check for warranty provisions and dispute resolution procedures. Identify any provisions about change orders and how modifications should be handled. Note the contractor's contact information and any surety bond requirements.
Contact the contractor in writing to identify the problems and request resolution. Be specific about what needs to be fixed or completed. Set a reasonable deadline for response, typically 7 to 14 days. Keep your communication professional and factual. Some contractors will resolve problems when approached directly, especially if you demonstrate knowledge of your rights. Keep copies of all communications.
Get written opinions from other licensed contractors about the defects and the cost to remedy them. Obtain at least two or three estimates for completing or correcting the work. Ask the evaluating contractors to document specific code violations or departures from professional standards. These assessments provide evidence of the original contractor's failures and establish the cost of repair.
If direct communication fails, send a formal demand letter. The letter should identify the project and contract, describe specific failures and defects, reference applicable laws including Business and Professions Code sections, state your demand (completion, repair, or refund), set a firm deadline for compliance (typically 10 to 14 days), and indicate consequences of non-compliance including CSLB complaint and lawsuit. Send via certified mail with return receipt requested.
File a complaint with the Contractors State License Board. The CSLB investigates complaints against licensed contractors and can take disciplinary action. Filing a complaint creates an official record and often motivates contractors to resolve disputes. The CSLB may facilitate mediation or, for smaller disputes, arbitration. Provide all documentation including your contract, photos, estimates, and correspondence.
Licensed contractors must maintain surety bonds, which provide a source of recovery when contractors fail to perform or pay. California requires contractors to maintain a $25,000 contractor bond. If your contractor's bond is active, you may file a claim against it. Contact the bonding company identified in CSLB records. Bond claims have specific procedures and deadlines.
If other remedies fail, file a lawsuit. Claims up to $12,500 can be filed in Fresno County Small Claims Court, where no attorney is required. Larger claims go to Superior Court, where an attorney is advisable. Prepare your case by organizing evidence, calculating damages, and identifying witnesses. Consider claims for breach of contract, fraud, and violations of consumer protection statutes, which may allow recovery of attorney's fees.
If you win in court, you may need to pursue collection. Options include wage garnishment for individual contractors, bank levies, and liens against contractor-owned property. Judgments against licensed contractors may also support CSLB license suspension until paid.
Building Your Contractor Case: Essential Evidence
The strength of your contractor dispute claim depends heavily on the evidence you gather. Strong documentation proves contract violations, establishes damages, and overcomes contractor attempts to dispute your claims.
Contract and Pre-Work Documentation:
Your contract is the foundation of most claims. Essential documents include the signed contract with all attachments and addenda, any written proposals or estimates that became part of the agreement, change orders modifying the original scope, permits if applicable, plans and specifications if prepared, and any written warranties or guarantees. If you have a verbal agreement, gather any writings that memorialize terms, including texts, emails, and notes.
Photographic and Video Documentation:
Visual evidence is powerful in construction disputes. Photograph all problem areas from multiple angles and distances. Include date stamps on all photos. Take video walk-throughs that capture the overall scope of problems while also documenting specific defects. Photograph before conditions if you have them, which establishes what existed before work began. Document any damage to your property or belongings caused by the contractor.
Payment Documentation:
Track all payments made to the contractor. Gather canceled checks, credit card statements, bank transfer records, and receipts. Document the total paid versus the contract price. If payments were made in cash, any receipts or acknowledgments are important. Create a payment timeline showing dates and amounts.
Communication Records:
Maintain complete records of all communications with the contractor. Save all emails, text messages, and letters. For phone calls, keep a log noting the date, time, and content of conversations. Follow up verbal discussions with written confirmation. Document any promises made, deadlines given, and explanations offered by the contractor.
Independent Expert Assessments:
Obtain written evaluations from other licensed contractors. Ask them to identify specific defects and code violations. Get detailed repair estimates with itemized costs. If possible, have experts photograph and document their observations. Expert opinions establish the contractor's failures and quantify your damages.
Building Department Records:
Obtain records from the Fresno Building Department. Check whether required permits were pulled. Get copies of any inspection records showing passed or failed inspections. Unpermitted work is a serious violation that strengthens your claim. Building department records are public and obtainable through records requests.
CSLB Records:
Document the contractor's license status at the time of the contract and currently. Print records from the CSLB website showing license status, classification, bond information, and any disciplinary history. If the contractor was unlicensed or had license issues, this evidence supports additional claims and remedies.
Damage and Impact Documentation:
Document all consequences of the contractor's failure. Calculate additional costs incurred, including alternative housing, storage, and emergency repairs. Document any personal property damaged. Track time lost from work to deal with the problems. If the defects caused health or safety issues, document those impacts.
Witness Information:
Identify people who can support your claims. Neighbors who observed the work or lack thereof can provide testimony. Workers from the contractor's crew may provide information about what happened. Anyone who heard representations made by the contractor could be a witness. Collect contact information and, if possible, written statements.
Critical Deadlines for Contractor Disputes in California
California law establishes various deadlines that affect your rights in contractor disputes. Understanding and tracking these deadlines is essential to preserving your claims.
Three-Day Right to Cancel:
For home improvement contracts solicited at your residence, California law provides a three-day right to cancel without penalty. This right must be disclosed in the contract. To exercise this right, provide written notice within three business days of signing. If the contractor failed to provide required cancellation disclosures, the cancellation period may be extended.
Contract Statute of Limitations:
The time limit for breach of contract claims depends on whether the contract is written or oral. For written contracts, the statute of limitations is four years from the breach. For oral contracts, the limitation is two years. The breach typically occurs when the contractor fails to perform as promised, which could be when work stops, when defects become apparent, or when the contract completion date passes.
Construction Defect Statutes of Repose:
Code of Civil Procedure section 337.15 establishes outer limits for construction defect claims, known as statutes of repose. Claims for latent defects (hidden defects not discoverable through reasonable inspection) must be filed within 10 years of substantial completion. Claims for patent defects (obvious defects) must be filed within 4 years. These limits can cut off claims even if you did not know about the defect.
SB 800 Prelitigation Requirements:
For claims subject to the Right to Repair Act (primarily new residential construction), homeowners must follow specific prelitigation procedures before filing suit. This includes written notice to the builder and opportunity to inspect and offer repair. These requirements have specific timelines that must be followed.
CSLB Complaint Deadlines:
The CSLB generally requires complaints to be filed within four years of the act giving rise to the complaint. However, filing promptly is advisable as evidence is fresher and the contractor is more likely to still be licensed and bonded. The CSLB has internal processing timelines, and complex complaints may take months to investigate.
Mechanics' Lien Deadlines:
If you are defending against a mechanics' lien or considering filing one against a subcontractor, strict deadlines apply. Contractors must file mechanics' liens within 90 days of completion. Homeowners can require contractors to provide unconditional releases as a condition of payment, which prevents later liens.
Bond Claim Deadlines:
Claims against contractor surety bonds have specific deadlines. Generally, claims must be filed within four years, but the bonding company may have shorter notice requirements. Contact the bonding company promptly after discovering problems to understand their specific requirements.
Small Claims Filing and Service:
Once you file in small claims court, you must serve the defendant at least 15 days before the hearing if served in person within California. Allow 20 days for service by mail or substituted service. Courts typically schedule hearings 30 to 70 days after filing.
Preserving Your Rights:
To protect yourself, act promptly when problems become apparent. Document everything immediately. Send written communications to create records with clear dates. Consult with an attorney if you are uncertain about applicable deadlines. Some deadlines can be tolled (paused) under certain circumstances, but do not rely on tolling without legal advice.
Common Mistakes Fresno Homeowners Make in Contractor Disputes
Homeowners dealing with contractor problems often make mistakes that weaken their position or reduce their recovery. Avoiding these common errors improves your chances of a successful outcome.
Mistake 1: Not Verifying License Before Hiring
Many homeowners fail to verify contractor licenses before signing contracts. An unlicensed contractor cannot legally perform most construction work in California, and you lose significant protections when hiring unlicensed workers. Always verify license status through the CSLB website before hiring. If you have already hired an unlicensed contractor, understand that you may be entitled to recover all payments made.
Mistake 2: Paying Too Much Upfront
California law limits down payments to $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less. Homeowners who pay larger upfront amounts lose leverage and may not recover those funds if the contractor abandons the project. Follow the legal payment limits and tie payments to completed work.
Mistake 3: Not Having a Written Contract
Verbal agreements are difficult to enforce and leave disputes about scope, price, and timelines. California requires written contracts for home improvement work over $500. If you proceeded without a written contract, gather whatever documentation exists, including emails, texts, and written estimates, to establish the terms.
Mistake 4: Continuing to Pay Despite Problems
Some homeowners continue making payments even as problems mount, hoping the contractor will eventually complete the work properly. This reduces your leverage and increases your loss if the contractor ultimately abandons the project. Stop payments when substantial problems occur and demand resolution before paying more.
Mistake 5: Not Documenting Problems Promptly
Delayed documentation weakens your case. Evidence degrades, memories fade, and conditions change over time. Document problems with photographs and written descriptions as soon as you notice them. Create a real-time record rather than reconstructing events later.
Mistake 6: Making Verbal Agreements for Changes
Changes to the original contract should be documented in written change orders specifying the modified scope and any price adjustments. Verbal agreements about changes lead to disputes about what was agreed. Insist on written change orders for any modifications.
Mistake 7: Hiring a Second Contractor to Fix Problems Before Documentation
Homeowners sometimes hire another contractor to fix problems before fully documenting the original contractor's failures. This destroys evidence and makes it harder to prove what went wrong. Document thoroughly before any repair work begins. Have the repair contractor document conditions they find.
Mistake 8: Threatening Without Following Through
Threatening legal action or CSLB complaints but not following through teaches the contractor that your threats are empty. Only make threats you are prepared to execute, and follow through when the contractor does not comply with your demands.
Mistake 9: Accepting Verbal Promises to Fix Problems
Contractors who have already failed to perform often make verbal promises to return and fix problems but never follow through. Get any remediation agreement in writing with specific deadlines and consequences for non-compliance. If the contractor will not commit in writing, proceed with your legal remedies.
Mistake 10: Waiting Too Long to Take Action
Statute of limitations periods can bar claims if you wait too long. Evidence becomes stale and harder to gather. Contractors may close businesses, surrender licenses, or become judgment-proof. Act promptly when problems arise rather than hoping they will resolve themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions: Contractor Disputes in Fresno
Under California Business and Professions Code section 7031(b), you may recover all compensation paid to an unlicensed contractor for work requiring a license, regardless of whether the work was satisfactory. This is an extremely powerful remedy. To pursue this claim, verify the contractor's unlicensed status through the CSLB website. Send a demand letter citing section 7031(b) and demanding return of all payments. If the contractor does not pay, file a lawsuit or small claims case. The unlicensed contractor cannot counter-sue for payment because section 7031(a) bars unlicensed contractors from maintaining any action for compensation.
In California, individuals can sue for up to $12,500 in small claims court. This limit includes all damages you are seeking, including the cost to complete or repair work, amounts paid for unperformed work, and consequential damages. If your total claim exceeds $12,500, you can waive the excess and sue for the maximum, though you cannot later recover the waived amount. Alternatively, you can file in Superior Court for larger amounts, though attorney representation is advisable for those cases.
California Business and Professions Code section 7159.5 limits down payments for home improvement contracts to $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less. For example, on a $20,000 contract, the maximum down payment is $1,000 (not 10%, which would be $2,000). Contractors who demand larger down payments are violating the law. If you paid an excessive down payment, this violation strengthens your claim and may support recovery beyond just the overpayment amount.
You can file a CSLB complaint online at cslb.ca.gov, by mail, or by phone at 800-321-CSLB (2752). Gather your documentation before filing, including the contract, proof of payments, photographs of problems, correspondence with the contractor, and estimates for repair. Complete the complaint form with specific details about the contractor's failures. The CSLB will investigate and may contact both parties. Possible outcomes include mediation, referral to arbitration, and disciplinary action against the contractor's license.
You can stop payment on a check that has not yet been cashed, though your bank may charge a fee. However, stopping payment does not resolve the underlying dispute. The contractor may claim you owe the money and pursue collection. Before stopping payment, document the reasons justifying non-payment, such as abandoned work, defective work, or violation of payment terms. Be prepared to defend your decision if the contractor files a claim against you. If you stopped payment improperly, you could face liability for the amount plus damages.
A mechanics' lien is a claim against your property securing payment for construction work or materials. Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers can file mechanics' liens under California Civil Code sections 8400-8494. To be valid, the lien must be filed within 90 days of work completion and must be preceded by preliminary notices in most cases. If a lien is filed against your property, you can contest it by demanding the contractor enforce it through lawsuit within 90 days, posting a bond to remove it, or challenging its validity in court. Improper liens can be removed, and frivolous liens may expose the contractor to liability.
Project abandonment is a serious breach of contract and may also violate the Business and Professions Code, which can result in license discipline. Document the abandonment with photos and written communication. Calculate your damages, including amounts paid for unperformed work, additional costs to complete with another contractor, and any consequential damages. Send a demand letter seeking recovery. File a CSLB complaint. If the contractor does not resolve the matter, file suit in small claims or Superior Court. Abandonment claims often result in favorable outcomes for homeowners because abandonment is difficult for contractors to justify.
Whether to hire a lawyer depends on the complexity and amount of your claim. For claims under $12,500, small claims court provides an accessible forum without lawyers. For larger claims or complex issues such as construction defects, license violations with significant damages, or multiple parties, an attorney is advisable. Many construction attorneys offer free consultations and may take cases on contingency. Consumer protection statutes like the CLRA and UCL allow recovery of attorney's fees, which makes attorney representation more affordable for qualifying claims.
What to Expect When Resolving Contractor Disputes in Fresno
Understanding realistic expectations for contractor disputes helps you make informed decisions about how to proceed and whether to accept settlement offers.
Typical Resolution Paths:
Contractor disputes typically resolve through one of several paths. Some contractors resolve issues after receiving a formal demand letter, particularly if they want to protect their license and reputation. CSLB complaints often motivate resolution through the investigation process or CSLB-facilitated mediation. Small claims court provides a relatively quick resolution, typically within two months of filing. Larger disputes may require Superior Court litigation, which takes longer but allows for more complex claims and larger recoveries.
Recovery Expectations:
What you can realistically recover depends on your specific situation. For incomplete work, expect to recover amounts paid for unperformed work plus any additional cost to complete with another contractor above the original contract price. For defective work, recovery typically equals the cost to repair or complete work properly. For unlicensed contractor claims, you may recover all amounts paid regardless of work quality. Consequential damages, such as temporary housing during repairs or damaged personal property, may also be recoverable.
Settlement Negotiations:
Many contractor disputes settle before trial. Contractors and their insurance carriers evaluate cases based on liability risk, potential damages, and litigation costs. Initial settlement offers are often below full damages. Evaluate offers against the strength of your evidence, the certainty of recovery, and the time and cost of continued litigation. Get any settlement in writing specifying payment terms and any ongoing obligations.
CSLB Process Outcomes:
CSLB investigations can result in several outcomes. Complaints may be closed without action if violations are not substantiated. Contractors may agree to mediated resolutions, making payments or completing work to resolve complaints. The CSLB may refer disputes to arbitration for binding resolution. For serious violations, the CSLB may pursue license discipline, including suspension or revocation. While CSLB cannot directly order money damages, the process often facilitates resolution.
Small Claims Court Outcomes:
Small claims judges regularly hear contractor disputes and are familiar with California construction law. When homeowners present well-documented cases with clear evidence of contractor failures, favorable outcomes are common. Judgments include specific dollar amounts, which you must then collect. Most contractors pay to avoid collection actions that affect their license and credit.
Collection Considerations:
Winning a judgment is meaningful only if you can collect. For licensed contractors with ongoing businesses, collection is usually achievable through standard methods including wage garnishment, bank levies, and property liens. Judgments can also be reported to the CSLB, which may condition license renewal on satisfaction. For contractors who have closed businesses or disappeared, collection can be more challenging. The contractor's bond provides an additional source of recovery.
Time Investment:
Resolving contractor disputes requires time investment. Expect to spend significant hours gathering documentation, communicating with the contractor and agencies, and preparing for hearings. CSLB investigations may take several months. Small claims cases are usually resolved within two months of filing. Complex cases can extend for a year or more. Weigh the time investment against potential recovery when deciding how to proceed.
Fresno Contractor Dispute Resources and Contacts
These resources can assist Fresno homeowners with contractor disputes.
The CSLB regulates contractors and investigates complaints. Verify licenses at cslb.ca.gov or call 800-321-CSLB (2752). File complaints online, by mail, or by phone. The CSLB can facilitate mediation, refer to arbitration, and take disciplinary action against contractors. Their website provides extensive consumer information about hiring contractors and resolving disputes.
Small claims court handles contractor disputes up to $12,500. The courthouse is at 1100 Van Ness Avenue, Fresno, CA 93724. Filing fees range from $30 to $75. The clerk's office provides forms and basic procedural information. Small claims advisors can help you prepare your case.
The Building Division handles permits and inspections. Verify whether required permits were obtained for your project. Request inspection records. Report unpermitted work, which may trigger enforcement action against the contractor. The Building Division can be contacted through the City of Fresno Development and Resource Management Department.
This legal aid organization provides free legal assistance to low-income Fresno County residents. They may handle construction disputes or provide referrals. Contact their Fresno office at (559) 570-1200 for intake information.
For disputes exceeding small claims limits or involving complex issues, the bar association can refer you to attorneys experienced in construction law. Many construction attorneys offer free consultations and may take cases on contingency for consumer claims.
The DCA provides general consumer protection information and resources. While they do not resolve individual contractor disputes, their website offers educational materials about consumer rights and contractor transactions.
While not a legal resource, BBB complaints create public records of contractor practices and may motivate resolution. The BBB can also provide information about complaint history when you are researching contractors.
For cases involving fraud or criminal conduct by contractors, the District Attorney's Consumer Protection Unit may investigate. They pursue criminal cases and injunctions against fraudulent business practices.
The California Courts website at selfhelp.courts.ca.gov provides forms, instructions, and guides for small claims procedures. Resources specific to construction and contractor disputes are available.
The Contractor Checkmate
Contract is King
Written agreement? Good. Verbal? Tougher, but texts and emails can help.
Document the Damage
Photos, videos, expert opinions. Every flaw is evidence.
Money Trail Matters
Payments, invoices, change orders… track every dollar.
The Contractor's Legal Nightmare
Many states require contractors to be licensed, and there can be serious penalties for unlicensed work or abandoning a project.
California Contractor Disputes Laws
Applicable Laws
- California Contractors State License Law
- Bus. & Prof. Code § 7000-7191
- Home Improvement Contract Requirements
Small Claims Limit
$12,500
Consumer Protection Agency
Contractors State License Board (CSLB)
Contractor Combat FAQ
When should I send a demand letter?
After reasonable attempts to resolve the issue directly fail. Give them a chance to fix problems, but don't wait indefinitely.
What if they're unlicensed?
That could be a major advantage. Many states void contracts with unlicensed contractors or allow full refund of payments made.
Can I withhold final payment for incomplete work?
Generally yes, especially if there's a written contract. Document the incomplete items and the amount you're withholding.
What if they filed a mechanic's lien?
You may still have claims against them. Dispute the lien if work wasn't completed satisfactorily. Consider consulting an attorney.
Should I get repair estimates from other contractors?
Yes. Independent estimates document the cost to fix problems and show what proper work should cost.
What about permits they never got?
Unpermitted work creates serious liability. The contractor may be required to obtain permits or undo work at their expense.
Can I recover more than my actual damages?
Often yes. Consumer protection laws may allow double or triple damages, plus attorney fees for contractor fraud or violations.
About FreeDemandLetter
FreeDemandLetter provides free, AI-powered demand letter generation with location-specific legal citations. Our content is reviewed by subject matter specialists and regularly updated to reflect current laws. We help thousands of people resolve disputes effectively—but we're not lawyers, and this isn't legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.