I have a contract on the Job. He owes me $3,900.00 . I have before and after photos of the work done and it was done right. The house has water damage causing the 40yr old popcorn ceiling to crack (8 inch crack). The painting of the ceiling caused the crack to expand 3-4 inches wider . Home owner trying to blame me for his ceiling crack. Fixing this crack was not in the contract. Owner also complaining about a rust spot coming through the new paint. (a 5 min. fix) His Emails indicate that he does not plan on paying me in full or possibly not at all. I imagine he will try to talk me into accepting way less than he owes me. Can I accept partial payment and then go after him w a lean for the rest? I he makes me sign something to let him off the full payment can I sue for blackmail? If I don't accept what his offer is I may not ever get anything out of him if he diappears into australia. Thank You for your time! Bob Blair