Question
How can I make a vendor fix bad work under a warranty?
The contractor’s work keeps failing and they’ve gone silent—what practical steps can I take now to protect my business and recover costs?
Answer
Faulty work plus silence is maddening—but you have options. Start by pulling your contract and warranty. Note what’s covered, how long it lasts, and any required steps like notice, cure, mediation, or arbitration.
Build your record: save emails, texts, call logs, photos/videos of defects, invoices, repair estimates, and dates. A short timeline helps.
You can write a Demand Letter to provide formal notice to the vendor. List the defects, reference the warranty, explain what resolution you’re seeking (repair, refund, or reimbursement), and include a clear deadline.
If they still don’t respond, follow your contract’s dispute process—like mediation, arbitration, or small claims court. For bigger losses, you may need to move forward with a lawsuit.
Remember, warranty laws vary. Rules can differ for goods, services, or construction work, and state consumer or contractor laws may apply differently. Checking your state’s rules or connecting with a Legal Pro can help you understand your rights and options.
What to consider in your specific situation
Every situation is different. Your rights and best next steps depend on your contract, the facts, and your state’s rules. Consider these:
- Type and scope of the contract or warranty.
- Exact wording of notice, cure, and dispute clauses.
- State consumer, contractor, or UCC laws that may apply.
- Size and structure of your business and losses.
- Prior emails, change orders, or approvals.
- Your risk tolerance and timeline to resolve.
Since every situation is different, consider using Rocket Copilot or connecting with a Legal Pro to get more information about how warranty and contract rules may apply to your situation.
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.