Legal Question in Construction Law in California

excessive charges / short pay

I had a licensed contractor do time and materials work without permits, a written contract, and no total job cost was agreed to beforehand. This work was completed six weeks ago and I was billed 4 weeks ago. I feel the contractor overcharged $2,500 in equipment and equipment rental charges I never approved, with the total job cost being $8,500. I called CSLB and they said was supposed to give a do not exceed price before starting the job.

I want to pay what I feet the job is worth ASAP. But I�m concerned he�ll lien my property for the rest. Could I offer to pay less contingent on him forgiving the rest? If he won�t accept less what legal recourse does he have against me?


Asked on 1/13/09, 11:20 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Daniel Bakondi The Law Office of Daniel Bakondi

Re: excessive charges / short pay

Not having permits if they are required may present a problem for you and him. You should maybe have an attorney write him a letter that specifically details why he cannot put a lien on a project that did not have a permit, and what will happen if he does that in terms he will understand. Let me know if you want my help.

Best,

Daniel Bakondi

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Answered on 1/13/09, 11:39 pm


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