[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by TCRSO

question: Do you have anything in writing? If it is just an estimate and they have started work, attempting to terminate could result in the filing of a mechanic's lien.

Never enter into any type of home improvement agreement without a written agreement of all the terms. This should include a start date a completion date and something known as an "abandonment clause". The abandonment clause should provide that if there is no substantial work (which should be defined) for a specified time, that the contractor will be deemed to have abandoned the project and that the agreement is automatically terminated. The termination is normally activated by written notice (e.g. certified mail return receipt). Also, the agreement should provide that no subcontractor shall be used without the written consent of the owner. The mechanic lien laws are complex. Don't agree without educating yourself.

It is not uncommon for some contractors to start work on multiple projects, thereby locking in the owners and subjecting them to mechanic's liens if they attempt to terminate.

We had that happen, and we waited for a very long time to have our glass lanai completed. They did good work but they were very bad at promises and communication. And sometimes told outright lies.

[Michigan Farmer]

We had a very bad experience with Wildwood Kitchen and Bath, like you money up front and take what you get. We ended up in small claims court, demand letter, and judgement lien before we got our money awarded us in small claims court. If money is required up front run away, there are to many other "good" contractors.