Work done on home on oral contract
I had a sheet metal company install a copper canopy on my home. The employee that estimated the project quoted me $250, but then the bill of $1000 arrived. No change orders were received, not even an original contract. The company is licensed in CA. as a contractor. I have spoken to the owner and he is sticking to the $1000 amount, even though no contract was signed. The job was finished at least 3 mo. ago. I have not received a 20 day notice for a Mechanic's Lien. If the owner decides to pursue that route, what recourse do I have? Thank You
Re: Work done on home on oral contract
1. Contractor is required to provide written contract for any project in excess of $500.00.
2. The prime contractor is not required to send a preliminary notice.
3. The deadline for filing a mechanic's lien is 90 days after the project is completed.
4. You cannot stop the contractor from recording a mechanic's lien. If he does, he must file a lawsuit to perfect the lien within 90 days of filing it; if he fails to do so, the lien is stale and you can file suit to hav it cancelled.
5. If he does record a lien, you should see a construction attorney.
Good Luck
E. Leonard Fruchter
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