I have a 'credit' with a deck guy that's not on paper. How can I protect myself without getting rippedoff?

Question

We prepaid in the beginning of Winter. He booked June 14th for us. We did the prep work and waited. No show. He did not answer any phone messages or emails from this past month until today. He now wants to discuss the details of what we want, but we had already done that and he booked a work time in for us. I'm sure he's semi-honest and will get it done, but what can I do to protect myself and my investment of almost $2,000?

Answer 1

NEVER EVER PAY FOR ANYTHING UP FRONT!!!  Hope he is an honest man.. You might have to get the local authorities involved...

Answer 2

I hope he is honest. The next time you do something like that only pay for materials when they are delivered and pay the labor after it is done. There is a lot of people that have gotten a real s******g and not much they could do about it. If the contractor you hire doesn't want to do that get another one. Only very legitimate contractors will accept these terms.

Answer 3

be sure to keep any and all e-mails that you had with him!!! be sure that you write something like ... you know I have gave you $2000 of our money and you promised to build a deck to this size and shape by this date and so far you have not kept up your end of the deal!!!! and then be sure to keep a copy of it when he replies,,,,,

Answer 4

You need to try and get something in writing.

There is consideration already in your favor, the money, but according to UCC law, anything over $500 or $5000 depending on the case, needs to be in writing for it to be a valid contract.

Did you pay the guy cash, or by check? If you paid by check, I would definitely ask the bank for a copy of the check you paid with, they can usually print it off for you.

Answer 5

Your VERY trusting. Be nice , very nice and ask him to come over to talk and THEN ask him to sign your documents.

If he signs then hes honest.