Learn how to handle a difficult situation with your contractor
Contractor issues often stem from miscommunication, and you can resolve many problems through calm conversations while documenting everything in writing for future reference.
Withholding final payments until you're satisfied with the work protects you when a contractor threatens you or fails to complete the project as agreed.
Sending a registered letter that references your written agreement gives your contractor a clear timeline to respond and complete the work to your specifications.
Hiring a local general contractor who has strong reviews and referrals helps you avoid disputes by ensuring clear communication and professional conduct throughout your project.
While most home projects go off without a hitch, every now and then, issues with a contractor can occur. We all have bad days from time to time, and sometimes we can read into a person's comment or tone and assume the worst.
But if your contractor is threatening to file a lien or sue you or sending invoices for an amount not dictated by the contract, that’s inappropriate behavior. Learn what to do if your contractor is threatening or bullying you.
While any threat from a contractor can be unnerving, it's important to remain composed. A lot of contractor issues are due to miscommunication and can be resolved through calm but candid conversations. Most contractors are honest and hardworking, but every now and then, you can run into an issue.
Talk with your contractor about the issue and see if you can come to a common ground. If it’s a matter of money, refer back to the contract, emails, or any other written communication you have to stand your ground. Provide receipts, paid invoices, or bank statements as proof—it’s possible they made a mistake and truly believe you never paid when you did.
Be sure to record everything in writing. If you have a verbal conversation, send an email or text as a follow-up so the details are documented. The better records you have, the easier it is to pursue legal action down the road if needed.
If you have an agreement with your contractor, whether it’s a formal contract or a text exchange, pull out all the notes you have. Refer to details such as payment terms and the timeline for the work. Be open to listening to their perspective, but stand firm on what you agreed to and make arguments based on what's in writing.
Keep in mind that certain scenarios are unavoidable, like supply chain issues, staffing problems, or illness. And if a heated argument occurred because something is on backorder or because your contractor couldn’t work because they’re sick, take a beat.
Delays are inevitable and a little understanding goes a long way. Talk to your contractor and see if you can work things out.
However, your contractor shouldn’t be adding extra charges for work outlined in the original agreement. An exception to this is if you change pieces of your project, such as upgrading from laminate to tile floors. There will be a new price, payment terms, and timeline. If your contractor discovers mold during a bathroom remodel, update your project agreement so everyone's on the same page.
Beyond talking with your contractor, there are agencies and resources that can help you. But before getting authorities or the Better Business Bureau involved, make sure the situation is actually that serious. Can a conversation resolve the issue? Is it a matter of miscommunication?
If your contractor truly is threatening you, here's a list of who to contact.
If your contractor doesn't own their business, reach out to someone higher up at the company who might offer you a solution.
File a complaint with the BBB or ask for help with mediation and arbitration services.
The department of consumer affairs, local district attorney's office, consumer protection agency, and state licensing board can offer you solutions and recourse. Contact them to see what your options are. If you feel a contractor is a threat to your safety, contact your local police.
Consult with a contract attorney who can guide you. They might counsel you on arbitration or filing a claim through small claims court. Contract attorneys usually charge up to $120 per hour.
If your contractor won’t finish the job or is threatening you, it could be beneficial to withhold further payment. Best practice is to not hand over final payments until all the work is done to your satisfaction.
If your contractor is bullying you for more payments, it’s possible that they are short on cash. They may not be paying their subcontractors, who could then threaten to place a lien on your property.
Talk with your subcontractors to see if they’re getting paid, and consult an attorney or your local district attorney’s office for guidance.
Sending a formal letter to your contractor can be enough of a push to get them to complete the job and follow through with the details of your contract. Refer to your expectations based on your written agreement.
Mention that if they don't hold up their end of the deal, you'll contact the Better Business Bureau, their licensing board, bond company, or the district attorney's office. You can also mention that you plan to leave a negative review. Give your contractor a timeline, such as 10 days, to respond and take action.
You can send a registered letter yourself or get help from an attorney. When you send a registered letter through the postal service, you'll have proof you sent it. If you don't hear from your contractor after your first letter, consider sending a second one.
Before heading to court, you can request arbitration. With arbitration, a neutral or third party mediates and helps form a resolution between you and the contractor. Consult an attorney about arbitration and ask what they recommend for your situation.
You can file minor suits through small claims court. Your state has its own limit, which could be anywhere from $3,000 to $25,000. In most cases, you'll want to request arbitration before filing a claim. There are fees to file and your contract might even stipulate that you need to try arbitration before filing a suit.
If your contractor is in breach of their contract, you can let them go from your project. But first, contact an attorney to ensure you aren't breaching your end of the deal. You don't want to end up with your contractor having legal leverage over you.
Before hiring your next local general contractor, going through a vetting process can help ensure you hire someone who will successfully complete your project without issue. Read reviews, get referrals, and examine their online presence to assess their demeanor, reputation, and experience level.
This article does not constitute legal advice and is for educational and informational purposes only. We recommend that you seek input from an attorney about your specific case.
Flawless finish and exceptional service. Custom Paint Jobs LLC is the only choice for me.
Custom Paint Jobs, LLCVisited my home for estimate same day that I called. Painted on Saturday. Great job. Good price!
Window Depot did an amazing job on my deck. I wasnt sure what I wanted to do, but their composite decking was affordable and will last a long time. I am excited to have family over, and I am no longer embarrassed by my backyard. Jeff and the ground crew were polite, respectful, and caring for...
Window Depot USA of Central OhioThe guys did an outstanding job and we had a great experience with CarifaTile. I appreciated that Joe reviewed the quotes with me and set expectations prior to the install. The crews showed up as scheduled and always left the areas clean upon leaving the house. We will definitely use...
CarifaTileBeginning with the estimate, Larry and Peyton were super helpful in getting my new condo's interior re-painted. Not only was the job well done, but also done in a super timely manner as promised.
Five Star Painting of Plain City and PowellBJ Trim Carpentry rescued me in the middle of a do-it-yourself project. I found I needed more expertise than I had...and more TOOLS! BJ Trim Carpentry responded quickly and completed what I needed expertly, politely and with a little humor!
This brownstone is historical and the carpentry work is very detailed. I was very happy to secure a company in NY and living in OH to complete the request. Wood work on this brownstone has been existing since approximately 1888 and West side did a GREAT JOB. I will not be able to...
Westside Home ImprovementWe had a great experience with Mark Rodgers Construction. We were in the process of seeking out estimates for possible foundation work for our front porch. Mark came out himself to provide the estimate. Turned out that the company deals mainly with concrete, so we wouldn't be getting an...
Mark Rodgers ConstructionOverall this experience was incredible! I looked on Angies List for a cleaning service because I was planning a holiday party and wanted to make sure we found a reliable, thorough and efficient cleaning service to make sure everything was perfect for the party since we had co-workers and...
From beginning to end our experience with Joe was very good. He was professional and prompt in his estimate for the job and worked hard to meet our schedule so that he could remove our old backsplash the day before our new countertops were removed and return shortly after they were removed to...
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
If a disappearing contractor left you without your deposit and services, here are the actions to take to remediate the project and get your money back.
If your contractor causes water damage during a home project, there are several steps to take. Learn how to handle this situation so it can get resolved ASAP.
Reputable contractors have the licenses and insurances in place. Here’s what to know about a contractor liability release form and when not to sign.
You’re ready to renovate, but you’re still waiting to hear back from the contractor. Here are four tips on how to get a busy contractor to call you back.
Many homeowners are unsure about tipping contractors, and if so, how much. This quick guide will help you understand whether you should tip.
Wondering what to do when you’re unhappy with a contractor’s work? Whether the contractor did a bad job, didn’t follow plans, or didn’t even finish, you have options. We’ll go over how to request a resolution (without being counterproductive) here.
