I sued my contractor and he responded with a counterclaim! Now what?

Counterclaims are a common lawsuit tactic -- learn how to fend one off.

How to Prove to Small Claims Judge That Home Contractor Messed Up

Photos, copies of correspondence, and affidavits from witnesses are among the types of evidence that a small claims judge will want to see if you're suing a home contractor over substandard work.

Should I take my contractor to small claims court?

Weighing the pros and cons of dealing with a dispute over a nonperforming home contractor's work in small claims court.

I have no written contract with my home contractor. Can I still sue?

Taking legal action against a home contractor on the basis of an oral agreement.

My state's small claims court gives me a jury trial option. Should I take it?

Weighing the options to present a claim against a home contractor to a small claims court judge or to a jury.

Should I sue my contractor individually, or just his business?

When a self-employed handyperson messes up your home repair, do you sue the person, or look for a business name to sue?

FAQs About Disputes With Contractors Performing Home Improvements

Got an issue with the contractor who's supposed to be performing repairs or a remodel? Others may have faced the same concerns.

Contractor Does Lousy Work, Files Mechanics' Lien for Nonpayment: Now What?

You say the contractor doesn't deserve payment, but now the contractor has put a lien on your house: What's next?

My home contractor isn't finishing the job: What can I do?

When a remodeling or construction project is delayed long-term because of the contractor's inaction, what can a homeowner do?

My contractor is charging way more than what he estimated. What should I do?

Although an estimate is not a contract, careful review of your contractor's final invoice should turn up information about whether the final price was fair.

Worker Injured During Homebuilding Project: Who Pays?

If you don't take steps to find out in advance whether your workers are insured for injuries, you could end up having to cover medical and other costs.

How Do I Make My Home Contractor Pay the Court Judgment?

The court says your contractor owes you money, but he's not paying it. What steps can you take to collect?