Contractor Disputes
Complete guide to handling contractor and home improvement disputes in small claims court.
Contractor & Home Improvement Disputes
From incomplete work to unlicensed contractors, learn how to pursue fair compensation for construction and repair disputes.
What Small Claims CAN Handle
- •Incomplete or abandoned work (refund claims)
- •Poor quality workmanship requiring repairs
- •Overpayment for work not performed
- •Property damage caused during work
- •Unpaid contractor invoices (contractor suing)
- •Unlicensed contractor recovery claims
What Requires Different Courts
- •Major construction defects (often civil court)
- •Claims exceeding state small claims limits
- •Mechanic's liens or property liens
- •Building code violation enforcement
- •Insurance subrogation claims
- •Specific performance (forcing completion)
Common Scenarios
Incomplete or Poor Quality Work
Contractor started the job but left it unfinished, or the work doesn't meet the agreed-upon standards. You need to hire someone else to complete or fix it.
Contractor Abandoned the Job
Contractor took deposit or partial payment, started work, then stopped coming. Project is left half-done with no communication.
Overpayment for Work Not Done
You paid upfront or in installments, but the contractor didn't deliver the full scope of work. Now they won't return the excess payment.
Property Damage During Work
Contractor damaged your property while working - broke fixtures, scratched floors, damaged walls, or harmed existing structures unrelated to the project.
Evidence You Should Gather
Strong documentation is critical for contractor dispute cases. Organize these items before filing your claim.
Contracts & Agreements
- Written contract or estimate
- Change orders and amendments
- Scope of work description
- Timeline and completion dates
- Contractor license information
Photos & Visual Evidence
- Before photos (dated)
- Progress photos during work
- Photos of defects or damage
- Final state documentation
Communications
- Emails about the project
- Text messages with contractor
- Written complaints sent
- Demand letter before filing
Financial Records
- Payment receipts and checks
- Bank/credit card statements
- Repair estimates from others
- Invoices for completion work
Critical Information for Contractor Disputes
Pro Tip: Verify License Before Hiring
Always check your contractor's license with the state licensing board before work begins. An unlicensed contractor cannot legally enforce a contract against you in many states.
Calculate Your Damages Carefully
Your damages include: money paid minus fair value of work received, plus cost to complete/repair, plus any property damage caused. Don't forget inconvenience costs if applicable.
Example Case + How This Site Helps
Example: You paid for home renovation work that was left incomplete.
A contractor accepted progress payments, abandoned the job, and left code issues requiring rework. You want the overpayment and correction costs.
Typical claim range: $2,000-$10,000
What to collect first
- Contract, payment schedule, and canceled checks
- Before/after photos plus third-party repair estimates
- Permit or inspection notices showing defects
Confirm fit and priorities
Start with the quiz so the app can steer you toward the right dispute flow and state rules.
Take the quizOrganize evidence and timeline
Use Case Manager to track facts, deadlines, and uploads so your story is clear and ready for court.
Open Case ManagerPrepare your pre-filing package
Generate a demand letter and supporting documents to improve settlement chances before filing.
Build demand packagePlan filing and hearing prep
Use filing guidance, calendar, and statement tools so you can submit correctly and present clearly.
Review filing stepsReady to Assess Your Contractor Dispute?
Take our intake quiz to organize your facts and determine if small claims court is right for your situation.
Legal Disclaimer
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and locality, and information may be outdated. No attorney-client relationship is created. Consult a licensed attorney for advice about your specific situation. See our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.