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client ends project day before final punchlist, and refuses to pay final total

WashingtonBack ChargesChange OrdersConstruction ContractLawsuitMechanics LienNotice of Intent to LienPayment DisputesRight to Lien

I was working a residential bathroom remodel, the contract was for 22627.01, including tile cost when selected and with change orders and additional work, verified through emails and verbal change orders the total became 27752.78, I was paid intermittently total of 13000. when it came to 1 more day of work to just knock out a very small punchlist, the night before I asked for 10000 and allowed him to hold a retainer of 4752.78 until the next day when i completed the job and he was happy. He denied the 10000, wrote a check for 2000. then the next day, I was told that I was not allowed back to the property and that my workmanship was unsatisfactory. Then he offered 2900 only if i signed a letter of dissolution. Hes now threatening to file fraud with L and I. all the supposed poor workmanship was the things I had on my punchlist, The bathroom is absolutely beautiful, Ive showed pictures to alot of people and everyone agrees that its a great bathroom and the amount of work I put into it is close to 300 hours. Throughout the process, there was never a single complaint and his wife even said multiple times that with my work skill and knowledge of processes and supplies I should have my own improvement show or broadcast on youtube. But the day before it was time to settle up, my work all of a sudden was unsatisfactory. pictures are up on my website. www.waunatile.com under a.d.a. compliant remodel. this guy owes me almost 13000 and all my prices are completely justified, hes making up prices for my business, what do I do, I have 400 to my name as all I had went into this project.

2 replies

Jun 6, 2023
You should file a claim of lien if you are within 90 days from the last day on the job. If he doesn't respond positively within 8 months, you will have to foreclose the lien and deal with his complaints in court. There is no quick way to get paid.
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Jun 6, 2023
Sounds like the owner is out to take advantage of you. Be sure to document all this by a nicely written letter to the owner which in the future you might use in court. Mention the fact that you were terminated before the final punch list and you stand ready to finalize. Also you should file a lien within 90 days for the amount that he owns you. Good luck
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