Legal Question in Business Law in Florida

how do I get my money from a contractor whom just called today and said stop wor

I am a woman owned small business who entered into a contract with a gc, the job involved 1600ft iron fence and gates,we were required to supply and install,then we were given the job of the concrete wall for the other sub backed out,6 weeks and 30,000 into the job after making the fence sections, 30, and doing all the concrete foundations for the pour, one of the gc comes and inspects our material, 3 days ago says it is fine, meanwhile after digging the foundations 2' they hit us with a change order that it has to be 3 ft the following day they call and say they want us off the job. all the hard work has been done all materials we have, and must add that we could not put up the fence without them having a permit which they just recieved 2days ago, and they just said things just arent working out. trying to keep this short, how to go about this the best way for all my money is tied up in this sight especialy payroll, etc. please tell me the way to go about thi please! My first instinct is to go lean the job

thank you for your time sincerely


Asked on 5/24/01, 9:07 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Stephen Verbit Stephen R. Verbit, P.A.

Re: how do I get my money from a contractor whom just called today and said stop

Assuming you timely sent a Notice to Owner, you should record a construction lien against the property as soon as possible in order to preserve your lien rights, which are subject to expiration after the passage of 90 days from when you last provided labor, services or materials for the project. Meanwhile, you should try to negotiate with the contractor for payment for the work you did. If you cannot reach a satisfactory resolution out of court, it may be necessary to file suit against the contractor and the owner. You may have several legal claims and remedies that you can seek in court. Do not delay recording your lien. Consult an attorney.

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Answered on 6/25/01, 11:29 am
Alexander M. Rosenfeld Rosenfeld & Stein, P.A.

Re: how do I get my money from a contractor whom just called today and said stop

Your first instinct is correct. Consult with a competent atty to be sure you can still lien the job. In all likelihood suit will be necessary. Please see prior reply for additional details.

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Answered on 6/26/01, 6:03 pm


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