When Massachusetts residents hire a contractor for home improvements, they are hoping for great outcomes that will add value and livability to their homes. However, some contractors’ poor practices lead to bad workmanship, endless delays, uncompleted jobs and dangerous or sub-standard results. This can happen even to homeowners who sought out references and drafted a remodeling contract before starting the job. However, there are actions that people can take to protect themselves.
Dismissing a contractor after shoddy work
Homeowners may want to start the process by dismissing the contractor from the job. While this may seem obvious, there can be challenges here if the contractor claims that they are the victims of a contract breach. Homeowners can help to protect themselves by making clear in their official notice exactly how the contractor has already violated the agreement, for example through significant delays or the use of inappropriate methods or materials. A construction law professional can work with homeowners throughout the remodeling process, from drafting an agreement to dealing with the fallout caused by a bad contractor.
Seeking accountability from a bad contractor
Depending on the terms of the construction contract, homeowners may need to pursue an arbitration process before taking the contractor to court. Arbitration processes are based on the contract and aim to resolve differences. While this may work with disputes over rising costs or delays, it may be far less effective in the case of shoddy work or serious damage done to a property. After all, a bad remodel can significantly damage the equity held in a home or require extensive and costly repairs.
Depending on the extent of the damage, homeowners may pursue their contractors in court. Here, they may address the violation of the contract as well as other negligent, careless or malicious conduct that has caused damage to their property and seek compensation for the harm done.
