Contractor Disputes

Contractor & renovation disputes

Suing a contractor, or a client who won't pay, in Windsor

Bad renovation work, a job left unfinished, a deposit that was never returned, or an invoice that was never paid. We represent homeowners, businesses and contractors in Small Claims Court for claims up to $50,000.

For homeowners and businesses

When a contractor or tradesperson lets you down.

  • Deficient, poor-quality or unsafe work
  • Work left unfinished or abandoned
  • Deposits taken and not returned
  • Delays, overcharges and breach of contract
  • Cost to repair or complete the work by someone else

For contractors and trades

When a client won't pay for work you did.

  • Unpaid invoices and holdbacks owed under the contract
  • Extras and change orders the client refuses to pay
  • Defending a claim about the quality of your work
  • Demand letters before you sue

How it works

From demand letter to judgment

1. ReviewWe look at your contract, quotes, invoices, photos and messages, and tell you what your claim is worth.
2. Demand letterMany disputes settle after a firm demand letter. If not, we prepare and file your claim or defence.
3. CourtWe represent you at the settlement conference and trial, and help you enforce the judgment.

Act early: most claims must be started within two years of when you discovered the problem. Construction lien claims and claims over $50,000 are heard in the Superior Court of Justice, where we refer you to a lawyer.

Questions

Contractor disputes: common questions

Can I sue a contractor for bad work?

Yes. If the work breaches your contract or was not done properly, you can claim the cost to fix or finish it, plus any deposit or overpayment, up to $50,000 in Small Claims Court.

The contractor took my deposit and never started. What can I do?

We usually start with a demand letter. If the money is not returned, we file a claim in Small Claims Court for the deposit and related costs.

I'm a contractor and my client won't pay. Can you help?

Yes. We send a demand letter and, if needed, sue for the unpaid invoice, extras and interest under your contract.

What should I bring?

Your contract or quote, invoices and receipts, photos of the work, and texts or emails with the other side.