the project was completed on Aug 31. she made a partial payment on oct 26. she still owes $1030. What are my options?
Small Claims Court.
It sounds like the lien period has already run if the project was finalled out last August, unless you did additional extra work after that time (not punch list work). The usual lien deadline is within 90 days of substantial completion of the entire project. However, you still have the right to sue the owner for breach of contract. You can sue the owner yourself in Small Claims Court. With a claim of $1,030, that would be the most cost effective method. You could also have an attorney write a strong demand letter to the owner demanding payment first. I’m happy to answer any questions you have about this.