A contractor doing work on my neighbors property damaged my new cement walk way. What can I do?

Question

He wanted wanted to patch it, I told him no. He patched it anyway. I have photos before and after. I don't believe patching will work.

Answer 1

Agree with Hyperdog. A good patch will over time blend in as the surface ages, if the contractor did a good job.  However, if he actually patched your cement walkway without your written or witnessed consent, he trespassed and could be cited for vandalism (albeit from his perspective in good faith trying to fix his problem).  You should contact your city authorities and see what can be done.  However, don't expect a whole new walk way unless he is well insured or bonded and you really push the envelope.

Really depends on whether you are a Type A or Type B personality.

Answer 2

How well the patch will work depends on a variety of factors, including how much damage was done, how big is the damaged area, how well was the patch area prepared and how well was the patch done, was it allowed to cure or did it dry out really fast on a hot day.  

Beyond that, it may come down to a balancing act between how the patch looks versus how well you want to get along with your neighbors, and how much trouble is it worth for you to pursue this guy.

Answer 3

It might depend upon how large of an area was damaged.  Check with your home insurance company.  If your deductible is not too large, you can claim it with them and give them the info on the contractor that damaged it in the first place. The insurance company will allow you to choose the contractor who repairs the pavement and once it is repaired and the insurance company pays your choice of contractor, the insurance company is obligated to go after the at fault contractor for what they pay. Most insurance companies will also attempt to collect your deductible back from the at fault contractor and refund it to you.  If they can't collect your deductible then you can go to small claims court for it yourself.  The fact that the insurance company can collect their payout will not adversely affect your future insurability as it will show as $0.00 paid out by them.  Good luck.