Hey everyone! I'm looking for some advice about a recent home project gone wrong. We hired a contractor in Connecticut to install some Marvin Elevate windows in our home, which is a block construction type. Everything seemed fine at first, but after a series of delays and issues, I'm really concerned about the quality of his work. The contractor didn't replace rotted interior trim until I pointed it out, and even then, the trim work turned out poorly, with noticeable mistakes and even damage to our bathroom sink. On top of that, he invoiced us an unexpected extra charge of $1,900 without prior discussions. There was a lot of dust left behind, which is especially concerning for our family's respiratory health. Now, with a final payment request before I can even inspect the work myself, I'm feeling stuck. I'm concerned about him possibly filing a mechanic's lien if I hold back payment. I have several questions: Should I get a second opinion from another contractor? Is it worth getting a professional cleaning quote to document the dust issue? If things get messy with payment, what legal steps can I take? And, should I delay payment until I can see the work myself? Any insights would be super helpful!
3 Answers
Sounds like a nightmare! I'd definitely hold off on any final payment until you’ve had a chance to see the work for yourself. Try to get estimates from another trim carpenter to fix the shabby work and the cleaning needed due to dust. Document everything with emails and photos in case you need it later. If he really wants his money, he might be more inclined to fix the issues. Just make sure to give him a chance to fix things before you go hiring someone else. Keeping everything documented will help if you end up needing to contest a mechanic’s lien later on!
I feel for you! It's frustrating when contractors don’t uphold their end of the bargain. Regarding the mechanic's lien, you’re right to be cautious, but withholding payment can often motivate them to make corrections. If you have a written contract, that might help support your position if it goes to court. Make sure the contractor knows you’ll be getting a second opinion and that you won’t be rushing into the payment. Plus, any history of dust and debris will definitely be a point to discuss; hire a cleaner who can provide an estimate and note it as an issue!
Thanks for the reassurance! I’m definitely thinking about hiring that cleaner and getting everything documented, especially for our family's health.
Oh man, that trim work sounds like a classic case of cutting corners. No contractor should leave you with that kind of mess. I suggest you get in touch with another contractor for a second opinion to document the issues officially. The dust situation definitely needs to be addressed; if he's brushed it off, that's a red flag. Delay payment until you're satisfied with the work. It might be time to consider small claims court if he doesn’t respond to your concerns—just keep everything documented!
Absolutely! If he tries to rush you for payment without fixing the problems, it may be worth pursuing legal options. Stay firm!
I completely agree. Holding off payment shows you're serious about fixing this. Having another professional look at the work can help reinforce your case, plus could save you money in the long run!