We just got back from the laywer....
Only a subcontracor can file a claim to put a lien on your house. All other claims from someone working for the contractor cannot file a claim, and if they do, will not hold up in court.
If the contractor is using sub-contractors, they are supposed to notify the owner by giving you a "Notice to Owner" paper, which states to you he is using sub-contractors for your job.
Upon completion of your job, PRIOR TO PAYMENT, you are supposed to get in writing documentation that all of the sub-contractors are paid in full, THEN you pay the final payment to the contractor.
In my case, the employee was in fact not a sub-contractor, and not able to file a complaint against us. I spoke to my contractor and I was told also a deal was worked out with the employee.
Needless to say, this is a learning experience!! We are aware of the questions to ask for future reference, and will save our paperwork from this experience in our safety deposit box until forever, just in case.....
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