I hired a landscaping company to move a shed in my backyard and paid them $3,000 upfront. They started the job last October but struggled to lift the shed, trying various methods over the course of four months. During this time, all the shed's contents were left out in my yard under a tarp. Eventually, they admitted defeat and said they couldn't do it, yet they kept my full payment. They offered to apply part of the payment towards sod instead, which they quoted at $5,200. I found another company that could move the shed for $1,200 and replace the sod for $3,600. A straightforward process took just two hours with the new guy, who even pointed out the damage the first company caused. Now, I haven't heard back from the original landscapers. Do you think this situation warrants small claims court? I've been fair with them, but I don't want to overpay for their mistakes. What would you recommend as a next step?
3 Answers
I feel you on that! It’s a tough spot to be in, especially after paying upfront. For what it’s worth, in my experience, small claims court can be a solid option. You don’t need a lawyer, and all you have to do is present your case and show the damages. Sometimes, just the thought of going to court can motivate them to settle before it even gets there. Definitely keep all your records and evidence handy! If they tried to mess up like this, they might back off once they see you’re serious.
Exactly! Just be prepared, and even consulting a lawyer for some quick free advice wouldn’t hurt. They might help you decide if small claims is worth it.
You might also consider filing a lien on their business. It’s an action that can get their attention and usually leads to a faster response. Don't be afraid to be proactive about it!
Yikes, this is a classic 'never pay in full before the job is done' scenario. I've had my own share of contractor nightmares. Definitely look into small claims court. They should be held accountable since you gave them chances, but they still failed to fulfill their obligation. Also, you might want to check if you signed a contract—they can really help your case if you have written proof. Good luck, and keep us posted!
Yeah, I'd suggest gathering all the correspondence and anything that shows they couldn't complete the work. That'd help a lot in court!