Legal Question in Consumer Law in California

Paid Contractor Who Didn't Perform Work

I paid a contractor $800 to make a boat canopy. He started the work but then stopped. Repeated calls to him resulted in excuses, apologies, and promises he would complete the job. Now he is unresponsive. I have since discovered he has done this to several other people in the area. Is there any way to recover my $800 or prevent him from doing this again to others? Thank you.


Asked on 7/06/06, 2:09 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Carl Starrett Law Offices of Carl H. Starrett II

Re: Paid Contractor Who Didn't Perform Work

For an amount that small, I would take him to small claims court. If you have information on the other people who he's done this to, you might be able to get the attention of the local prosecutor and/or the media. The Better Business Burea is also a good resource, so you might file a complaint with them as well.

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Answered on 7/06/06, 2:28 pm
Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: Paid Contractor Who Didn't Perform Work

Despite a potential win in small claims court, the issue will be to collect your money. You might wish to hire a private investigator to see if he has any assets, or try one of those internet-based asset locator programs.

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Answered on 7/06/06, 6:23 pm


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