Q: Megan recently had a contractor perform around $13,000 worth of work on her new home. After a walk-through, she found the quality of work severely lacking. Despite asking for repairs, issues only worsened. She's now horrified by the final results. What steps should she take?
A: Oh boy, Megan. This is a tough situation. Start by documenting everything—take photos of the work and keep detailed notes of all interactions with the contractor. Then, pull out your contract to check for any clauses about quality, warranties, or other relevant details. (If you didn't have a contract, consider this a reminder that even minor home projects should have everything in writing.)
Next, make one final attempt to resolve the problem directly with your contractor. I suggest writing a letter or email to ensure there's a record. Clearly state how you want the issues resolved—whether that's giving the contractor a last chance to fix things or asking for a partial refund. Be sure to reference any contract terms related to workmanship or guarantees.
If that doesn't yield results, consider taking legal action. Small claims court could be a viable option, allowing you to pursue your case without hiring a lawyer (though keep in mind, small claims courts have limits on recoverable amounts based on your location). Consulting with an attorney who specializes in construction or contract law can provide additional guidance.
In most states, general contractors must have a license from a regulatory board. You might file a complaint against the contractor with this board. The outcome can vary but may include penalties like license revocation or restitution to you.
Lastly, while it won't recover any money, consider posting a review. Sharing your experience can help others make informed decisions when hiring contractors. It's a meaningful way to contribute to the community.
