Legal Question in Construction Law in California

Re: Bad experience with an owner

You've just learned the first lesson of home improvement contract law: never proceed without a signed contract. While not having a signed contract isn't fatal, it might have an impact on your ability to collect the full amount owed. Your best bet is to contact a local construction atttorney to review the matter in further detail. Even without a signed contract, you are still entitled to the reasonable value of your work.

Re: Bad experience with an owner

I assume you are a licensed contractor. If not, you'll lose. As things stand, because home improvement contracts must be in writing, signed by the party to be sued, you can't sue on the oral agreement or the unsigned written agreement. However, as Mr. Starrett points out, the lady isn't home free. You are entitled to recover the reasonable value of the benefits she got under a theory which is variously called "quasi contract," "quantum meruit," "unjust enrichment" or "restitution." The written but unsigned contract won't be enforced, but it is at least good evidence of the value of the benefits the lady received.

Re: Bad experience with an owner

If you are a licensed contractor then you should consult with an attorney ASAP. If you are not licensed you will not be able to recover anything at this point.