What to do when you are Unhappy with a Contractors Work

It is very frustrating when you spend a lot of money on a contractor’s work and then are not happy with the results. There are many different ways that you can take care of this, and part of it will depend on the exact problem, what is in the contract and the relationship you have with the contractor. You want to take a step by step approach to get the problem resolved as amicably as possible.
First, you want to find out your position in the matter. You will start doing this by checking your contract and finding out if the work violates the agreement. If the contractor did something that is clearly in contrast to the contract then you will have a much stronger position. For instance, if the contract for a painter states that he will give it two coats of paint and he only did one, then you clearly have good evidence. Before you go to speak to the contractor you want to have all of the evidence with you.
The next step is to talk to him. Many contractors care about their work; they may get a lot of business based on referrals. Because of this they may be willing to help you. Be honest and earnest about the problem. Show him exactly what you mean. Talk to him about what you expected and the problem. Also tell him what you want to happen. It is important to show him the contract if there is a discrepancy in it.
When you talk to him be very nice. Do not start out accusatory and combative, because he may just get defensive and not want to work with you at all. When you are nice, he might work more on it just to be nice.
If he will not agree to do anything, then your next move will be based on the contract. If he is breaking the contract, then you will have the option to go to a lawyer and set up legal action against him. This can be expensive, however. You can also just sue him yourself in small claims court. Even if it is not in the contract you can still sue him, however you will not have as strong a case.
You can also contact the Better Business Bureau and file a complaint. They will contact the contractor and attempt to help you resolve it. Many people do not want a complaint marring their record and may try to work with you. You can also contact the licensing board to make a complaint. If he is part of a professional organization then you can contact them as well.
Do not just accept work that you are unhappy with, especially if you have spent a lot of money. Take the above steps when you are not pleased with a contractor’s work.