What can I do if my contractor is taking too long?

Asked by: Mrs. Kaylah Witting I | Last update: February 12, 2026

Score: 4.2/5 (7 votes)

If your contractor is taking too long, first review your contract, then communicate in writing for a revised timeline, and document everything; if delays persist, escalate by refusing further payment (until completion), filing complaints with licensing boards/BBB, seeking mediation, or consulting an attorney to terminate the contract and hire someone else, while understanding you may need to pay extra to finish the job.

What is the 2 year rule for contractors?

The "2-year contractor rule" isn't a single law but refers to different concepts, primarily the UK's HMRC 24-month rule limiting tax relief on travel/subsistence for contractors at a single temporary workplace, and broader U.S. discussions about independent contractor classification, where long-term relationships (often nearing two years) signal employee status under Department of Labor (DOL) rules. In the UK, exceeding 24 months at one site (or 40% of time there) makes it a permanent workplace, ending expense claims. In the U.S., ongoing 2-year engagements raise red flags for misclassification, pushing the DOL to use various tests (like the current "economic reality" test) to determine if a worker is truly independent or an employee.

How to sue a contractor for taking too long?

To sue a contractor, gather all payment records and any written agreements. File a claim in small claims court by completing a complaint form online or at the courthouse. Clearly state the amount paid, the remaining balance, and the failure to complete work or honor warranties. Keep copies of all correspondence.

How long should you wait for a contractor estimate?

If they're still interested, ask if they can deliver the estimate to you within two to five days. This accomplishes two things: It reinforces that you're a serious, valuable customer, and it demonstrates that you'll be clear and reasonable about what you need to be happy if you were to move forward together.

Can you fire a contractor for taking too long?

Absolutely. You still have the flexibility to end a working partnership if the contractor fails to meet the contract terms, even without a written agreement.

Why Your Contractor Work Is Taking So Long... #shorts #lawyer #advice

45 related questions found

What is an unreasonable delay in construction?

Inexcusable delays are those where the contractor was entirely responsible for extending the project's duration. If this is the case, then the contractor will be liable for any costs or damages caused by the delay.

What is the 3/2:1 rule in construction?

the Work is, in the opinion of Canada, capable of completion or correction at a cost of not more than. 3 percent of the first $500,000; 2 percent of the next $500,000; and. 1 percent of the balance. of the Contract Amount at the time this cost is calculated.”

What not to say to a contractor?

When working with a contractor, avoid saying you're "not in a hurry," don't offer your own subcontractors, and never ask for "best price" or compare bids with vague statements, as these phrases erode trust or cause delays; instead, set clear timelines, budgets, and expectations in writing to ensure a smooth project.

What is the 30% rule for renovations?

The 30% rule for home renovation suggests you shouldn't spend more than 30% of your home's current market value on a renovation project to avoid overspending and protect your investment, ensuring it aligns with property value and neighborhood standards for a good return on investment (ROI). For example, a $400,000 home would have a maximum renovation budget of $120,000 (30% of $400k). This guideline helps prevent overcapitalization and financial strain, but exceptions exist for "forever homes" or luxury properties where lifestyle or unique features outweigh strict ROI.

How long can a contractor wait to bill you?

Generally speaking, contractors should collect payment for services within a reasonable amount of time, and this usually ranges from 30 to 90 days. In many states, payment is required within 30 days of the service being completed.

Is suing a contractor worth it?

Suing a contractor can be worthwhile for significant issues and strong cases, but it depends on weighing potential recovery against costs, time, and the contractor's ability to pay, requiring strong evidence like contracts and photos, and exploring alternatives like mediation or state licensing boards first, as litigation is draining and not always guaranteed to resolve the issue.

How to hold a contractor accountable?

To hold a contractor accountable, start with a clear, detailed contract, set realistic expectations and milestones, maintain open communication and documentation, use payment schedules tied to progress, and enforce consequences like penalties or withholding final payment, escalating to formal complaints (BBB, licensing boards) or legal action if needed.

Can a contractor go to jail for not finishing a job?

Yes, a contractor can go to jail for not finishing a job, but usually only in serious cases involving criminal intent, like fraud or theft, not just a simple breach of contract, which is typically a civil issue. Jail time is reserved for extreme situations where there's clear evidence the contractor took money with no intention of doing the work, potentially through felony charges like theft by deception or contractor fraud, especially if they repeatedly defraud clients.

Can a contractor be let go at any time?

Contractors aren't considered employees, so as long as you follow the agreed upon contract, you can let them go as needed and they cannot sue for wrongful termination. 1099 employees, however, can sue for breach of contract, if you don't respect the contract terms and conditions.

What are the 5 rules of contract law?

To understand that, you need to know about the 5 essential elements of a valid contract: offer, acceptance, consideration, mutual intent, capacity and legality. Understanding these 5 fundamental elements of a contract can help you protect your interests and avoid potential legal disputes.

How long is a contractor liable for their work?

Statutes and Contracts

For instance, in California, a general contractor is held liable for a minimum standard of construction for 10 years post-building completion, with certain defects claimable only within 1 or 4 years.

What is a reasonable timeline for a small renovation?

Average Total Time for Renovation

Small projects take an average of 3–6 weeks. Medium-sized remodels, such as kitchens, typically require 2–3 months, and larger projects can take even longer. At the other end of the spectrum, whole house renovations can take anywhere from 4 months to more than a year.

How much to remodel a 2000 sq ft home?

Remodeling a 2,000 sq ft house typically costs $30,000 for basic cosmetic updates to over $500,000 for high-end, full gut renovations, with a broad average falling between $100,000 to $250,000 for a mid-range remodel including kitchens and baths, depending heavily on finishes, location, and structural changes. Expect to pay $15-$150+ per square foot, with luxury finishes pushing costs to $200-$250+ per square foot, while a basic refresh might be $50-$100 per square foot.

What are common renovation mistakes?

Rushing Through Your Measurements

A common renovation mistake is making errors when calculating your measurements or dimensions. Addition or multiplication errors can happen easily, even with a calculator, but they can cost you big time.

How to tell if a contractor is ripping you off?

Signs That Your Contractor Is Ripping You Off

They Cannot Provide a Copy of Their License. It should not be difficult for a contractor to offer proof that they are licensed and legally able to do the work. ...
They Do Not Sign Contracts. ...
Their Rates Are Much Lower Than Average. ...
They Break OSHA Guidelines.

What voids a contractor contract?

A contractor contract can be voided by breach of contract (like non-payment or poor quality work), fraud/misrepresentation, illegality of the contract's purpose, lack of legal capacity (e.g., incompetence), or impossibility due to unforeseen events, while termination for convenience may allow ending it without cause if the contract allows, though following procedures is key to avoid wrongful termination claims.

What is contractor negligence?

Contractor negligence refers to the failure of a contractor or construction professional to meet the expected standard of care and skill in performing their contractual duties. Examples of construction defects include: Structural integrity. Faulty electrics.

What is the 6 8 10 Rule?

The 6-8-10 rule is a practical application of the Pythagorean theorem (a2+b2=c2a squared plus b squared equals c squared𝑎2+𝑏2=𝑐2) used in construction and DIY projects to create a perfect 90-degree (square) corner, especially when laying out foundations, decks, or walls, by measuring 6 units along one side, 8 units along the other, and ensuring the diagonal (hypotenuse) between those points measures exactly 10 units. It's a scaled version of the more basic 3-4-5 rule, allowing for larger measurements while guaranteeing a square corner.

What are three rules that construction workers need to follow?

10 Rules for Construction Safety. ...
Always wear PPE. ...
Be mindful and follow signs. ...
Provide clear instructions. ...
Keep the construction site tidy. ...
Organize and store tools properly. ...
Use the right equipment for each task. ...
Prepare an emergency response plan.

What are the 3 C's of a contract?

The "3 Cs of a contract" usually refer to Character, Capacity, and Capital, used by surety bond underwriters to assess contractor risk, but can also mean Certainty, Commitment, and Consideration in basic contract formation, or even Contracts, Communication, and Client Documentation for A&E firms. The most common interpretation, especially in construction, focuses on the surety's evaluation of a contractor's integrity (Character), ability to perform (Capacity), and financial strength (Capital).