The contractor was here last week, the project was going well, and now they are not returning calls. The kitchen is half-demoed and you already paid 60%. Here is the path forward.
Step 1: Document everything
Photos of the current state, all texts, emails, voicemails, dates, your contract and receipts.
Step 2: Make formal contact
Send a written demand by certified mail and email referencing your contract and giving a deadline (7 days) to return before you treat it as breach of contract.
Step 3: Stop all payments
Do not pay any more invoices. If you paid by credit card, consider disputing charges for incomplete work.
Step 4: File a complaint with the state contractor board
In Washington that is L&I. Many contractors return once they get the notice — losing their license is a big deal.
Step 5: Make a claim against their bond
Licensed contractors post a bond (typically $12,000 in Washington). You can claim against it without going to court.
Step 6: Get bids to finish the work
Bring in 2-3 licensed contractors to estimate completion. These bids become evidence of damages.
Step 7: Decide your legal path
Small claims court (under $10,000), civil court (over $10,000), free mediation, or an insurance claim if there was property damage.
Step 8: Hire a replacement
Get a detailed contract from the current state. Do not pay more than 25% upfront. Tie payments to milestones.
How to avoid this entirely
Verify license and bond before signing, pay in milestones, use a contractor with verifiable past projects, and check real reviews. A platform like WorkTime Alliance helps you avoid this — every contractor is verified licensed and bonded with public project history and reviews. Find a reliable contractor at app.worktimealliance.com/pro