I hired someone my brother knew to do some carpentry work in my basement. His verbal estimate was $3000. When he said he was finished, he invoiced me for $8800. I won't go into detail about what was or was not done (we didn't even get door knobs), but there was no written contract ever proposed or signed. I gave him a check for $4000 (because I tacked on some extra going to 6 panel doors) and marked the check "paid in full". The check was returned with a letter from his lawyer stating that it was unacceptable, and threatening a lien on my house. There was never mention of going over the $3000 estimate, and again no written contract. What are my options? I consulted a lawyer and after consultation, he has yet to get back to me. I know I was ignorant to let someone do work without a written contract. Also, there was no building permit pulled. Help? Thanks

The question really becomes whether this is a ripoff or not. If he can prove that the work he did was worth the invoiced price, then you don't have a leg to stand on.

What I would do is get in another carpenter to review the work done and give you an estimate of its value. If it is way under the invoiced amount, then have your attorney tell his attorney that an independent contractor has estimated the value at $x. That you will be willing to pay that amount to settle the bill. If he wants more tell him to sue you for the balance. You will also be contacting the BBB and the county licensing board.

He can sue you and, if he wins, place a mechanics lien on your home. This simply means you have to settle the lien at the time of sale.

Yes and one good reason, never, ( and I say never) have any contractor do any work without a written bid, firm estimate and/or a contract.

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Originally Posted by Fr_Chuck

Yes and one good reason, never, ( and I say never) have any contractor do any work without a written bid, firm estimate and/or a contract.

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Amen to that