Question
Can I sue a homeowner who won’t pay for my renovation work?
I finished the work we agreed to, but the homeowner still owes $5,000 and ended the job early. Do I have grounds to sue?
Answer
It’s frustrating when you finish a project and still aren’t paid. If you completed the agreed work and are owed $5,000, you may have a breach of contract claim.
A signed renovation agreement usually requires the homeowner to pay for work performed, even if they stop the project early. A client’s money issues rarely erase what they already owe.
Strengthen your position with clear proof:
- Contract: Scope, payment terms, and what happens if the job ends early.
- Proof of work: Photos, day logs, materials invoices, and receipts.
- Communications: Emails or texts showing the early stop and the unpaid balance.
If they still refuse to pay, you can consider civil court or, if eligible, small claims court to recover what’s owed.
What to consider in your specific situation
While unpaid renovation work often creates grounds for a claim, the outcome in your case could depend on:
- Exact contract language, including early termination.
- State rules on contractor payments and mechanic’s liens.
- Your documentation of completed work and nonpayment.
- Any defenses the homeowner raises.
- Whether court costs make sense for $5,000.
For more information about your specific situation, ask your question in Rocket Copilot or request a Legal Pro review.
At Rocket Lawyer, we follow a rigorous editorial policy to ensure every article is helpful, clear, and as accurate and up-to-date as possible. This page was created, edited and reviewed by trained editorial staff who specialize in translating complex legal topics into plain language, then reviewed by experienced Legal Pros—licensed attorneys and paralegals—to ensure legal accuracy.
Please note: This page offers general legal information, but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.
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Disclosures
- This page offers general legal information, not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.