Legal Question in Business Law in Florida

taken advantage of :(

Hello, thanks for giving me a chance. I do cabinet making on the side and charge very little. Mainly just the parts and a small fee. I don't have much into it other than doing the job for the people. Recently. I just did a job for someone that consisted of a new kitchen. For the whole kitchen which was quite large, I charged $3000 for it. A majority of this was in supplies directly related to it. Quite some time into the job, the customer cut 68'' off one cabinet, now (after the job is done) he wants to deduct $2500 which leaves me $500 to pay for the $2500 in parts. For my honesty. I am penalized. I know I should have a lot more things that make me legally bound but in this early stage, I can't afford it all yet. Do I have any options other than going and tearing out the cabinet?

I have no occumpational license, nor incorparation that would bind me in contract. I'm sorry to be short, only 1250 chars. Please let me know if you can!


Asked on 2/21/03, 11:25 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Randall Gilbert Gilbert & Caddy P.A.

Re: taken advantage of :(

Assuming that you do not require a license to install cabinets in the county you performed the work and assuming that the work you performed was otherwise legal, a contractor's damages are computed as either (1) the reasonable value of hte work performed or option (2) BP=C-Z.

That is, the Builder's profit = costs to complete had the owner not wrongfully stopped the contractor minus the contract amount. For example, if you and the owner agreed to a $10,000.00 contract amount and then the Owner reduced the scope of work to $4,000.00, you are still entitled to claim the profit you would have made on the $6,000.00 difference had the owner allowed you to perform. It is a bit complicated, and the damages in construction cases are computed differently than just about any other type of case, so if you need assistance you may contact the undersigned for an appointment, but just like you, I must also charge for my time so, I hope I have been of help thus far.

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Answered on 2/21/03, 11:51 pm


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