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what are my homeowner's rights in regards to the mechanic's lien

IllinoisNotice of Intent to Lien

We had major issues with a contractor to complete the storm damage on our property. It took our contractor 14 months to finally complete the job and now he seeks the full remainder that we owe him. Yes, the job is finally complete, but it was a huge hassle on our part to constantly stay on top and push to finally have it complete. The initial contract was for $8500, then there was an addition for $6500 to cover additional service on the house. We paid $4000 of the initial contract up front and full $6500 for the addition. Theoretically, we owe them $4500; however, I feel like they should not be paid a full remainder because it took way too long, and we had to constantly push and push to have the job finished. I suggested a 15% discount on the initial contract of $8500 which I thought was very reasonable and generous on our part for just how late this job was completed and all the hoops we had to jump through to have it done (+ there are issues with installs and some damage left on property); however, in return I got a notice that they will file a lien on my property if I don't pay the full amount within 10 days. They are referencing an IL Mechanics Lien Act. So, they have an act that they can rely on and apply to get their money back. What rights do I have as a homeowner in such a situation? The contractor is not deserving of a full remainder amount we know we owe him. There should be some adjustment applied and I thought paying 85% of the job that took 14 months to complete is reasonable. There was no mentioned in the contract when the job will be complete, but we trusted the contractor it will be done within a reasonable time. We signed the contract in good faith. Can you please shed lights into this matter for us so we could understand what rights do we have as homeowners in IL in such situations? These contractors feel that they can do whatever they feel like it because they are protected by that mechanics act. How is the consumer protected here? Do we have any rights? PS - I did tell the contractor that this is not that we're refusing to pay the amount, we just want to pay the just amount given the circumstance. We have no issues paying the adjusted amount as long as it's an honest portion.

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