Is it normal for a contractor to charge for a quote?

Estimates are usually free for small, simple jobs like painting a bathroom. A contractor will charge for an estimate for complicated, big projects that involve detailed designs and multiple plan revisions, such as building an addition to your home.

What can you do when a contractor takes your deposit and does nothing?

If a contractor takes a down payment and does nothing for the job such as having materials delivered or showing up to work on it he is guilty of fraud in most cases. Call the police and district attorney to see what charges can be filed against him.

What should a contractor do if he discovers a problem?

A contractor who does discover those sorts of problems in the course of work should notify the homeowner and explain the possible budgetary ramifications. A change order, explaining the costs and changes involved, should be agreed upon.

How much should I write a check to my contractor?

Moreover, it sounds as if your contractor did not put anything on paper, so even proving that the estimate amount was $5,000 could become your word against his. However, none of this necessarily means that you should write your contractor an $8,000 check. Estimates, generally, must be professionally reasonable.

When does a contractor have to show you receipts?

A contractor has no obligation to provide receipts of any kind if the project is based on a fixed fee. If the project is based on time and material then the contractor will need to show you the receipts. Same applies to change orders if the change order is for a fixed fee.

Who is the contractor that never started work?

I signed a contract with a contractor who agreed to start work on the date specified in the contract and took deposit for the materials. This was about a month ago and work has not started. The check was cashed and the contractor has said several excuses for delaying. Now he refuses to pick up the phone.