Contractor took money and didn't start the work and is MIA (insurance, to buy) - Tampa Bay - Florida (FL) -Tampa - St. Petersburg - Clearwater - City-Data Forum

Tampaite · 01-26-2018, 01:13 PM

we wanted some work done in our bathroom and we hired a remodeling contractor based on personal referral.

We got estimates and did the work order. Paid him 50% down(2K) to buy the materials and then another 50%(2k) after completion.

Contractor was supposed to start work on Monday, he called in sick the next 2 days, didn't answer the phone yesterday and then, today he changed his estimate and demanded more money. We said we just want to cancel the work order and to return our money.

As expected, he is ignoring our calls and hasn't bothered to respond to our texts or emails.

Talked to the person who gave referral and he said he was happy with the work done(which was several months ago) even though there was delay in finishing the work.

Considering we are in the hole for 2K. What's our next step ?

Any tips from those who may have been in the same shoe?

MortonR · 01-26-2018, 01:16 PM

I presume you got his state/county contracting license number and insurance information?

If so, your first call should be to the County and then possibly law enforcement.

RM

Tampaite · 01-26-2018, 01:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MortonR

I presume you got his state/county contracting license number and insurance information?

If so, your first call should be to the County and then possibly law enforcement.

RM

I have his business card which shows name of the LLC but no address and the work order receipt and upon closer examination, it does not have any license number.

Update: Using the name of LLC, I was able to search on sunbiz.org and found an address

Trying to see if it can be reconciled in other ways. Law enforcement and going to county would be possible steps but I'd take them if no other option is available.

MortonR · 01-26-2018, 01:34 PM

No contractor's license or proof of insurance?

And you were giving this person money to do work in your home?

Why?

RM

bentlebee · 01-26-2018, 03:30 PM

PM me as I successfully got a judgment against a person who tried to do that to me and part of his probation is to pay restitution.

Which County?

Pragmaticus · 01-26-2018, 05:59 PM

Keep records of all communications with him. You made need it later.

Best of luck!

DWMachineshop · 01-26-2018, 06:05 PM

Any time that someone who is going to perform a service for you asks for money before they start the job you terminate the transaction. Now. That is just basic common business sense.

CrowGirl · 01-26-2018, 08:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DWMachineshop

Any time that someone who is going to perform a service for you asks for money before they start the job you terminate the transaction. Now. That is just basic common business sense.

I'm not sure I agree. I have found it is typical for contractors to expect 50% up front. Now, if you have good references and have checked the contractor's licenses, etc. that may be fine. I've hired a lot of contractors on that basis without a problem but always check the licensure, etc. Sadly, I think it is unusual to find a contractor willing to do the work first before receiving payment - they get ripped off too. Now if they wanted full payment up front I would be war since that is not market.

KPB · 01-26-2018, 08:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DWMachineshop

Any time that someone who is going to perform a service for you asks for money before they start the job you terminate the transaction. Now. That is just basic common business sense.

Agree. NEVER NEVER NEVER give a worker a deposit. You ONLY pay UPON COMPLETION.

When you looked him up on sunbiz did it show him as active or inactive? Not that it matters too much at this point.
IMO, after him asking for more $ lol. Pretty much tells you what you already know. Your screwed!

Count it as a lesson learned.

Harpaint · 01-26-2018, 08:56 PM

A flooring contractor absconded with our money after finishing only half the job. We contacted our local police and the officer told us what to do (send certified letters, etc). After the letters were all returned, the officer started a warrant on him for theft. Turns out the guy had done it before and there was another party after him too. Anyway the police traced the guy all the way to a neighboring state, and we got our money back in cash! So don't give up!