I've been working with a contractor to repair some water damage in my home, and while they've completed about 95% of the project, there are just a few things left to finalize—like some light electrical work and trim repair. The issue is that the contractor has gone dark. It's been two weeks since I last heard from them, and despite my attempts to reach out, I haven't received any responses. Our contract doesn't specify a timeline for completion, but I'm worried they've abandoned the job. I still owe them 50% of the payment, but I'm comfortable finishing the remaining work myself if necessary. So, I'm unsure how to approach this situation: Should I send them a notice about the potential abandonment of the job? What steps should I take next?
1 Answer
I recommend sending them a certified letter clearly stating that if you don’t hear from them in a set number of days, you’ll consider the job abandoned. Mention that you estimate their work is about 80% complete and you’ll pay them for that once they get back to you. This way, you’re making it clear you want to resolve things, but also protecting yourself by withholding the full remaining amount.
So what you're saying is to pay them only for the work that's done, like 80% of the total? That makes sense!