What to do if a contractor refuses to provide proof of receipts for renovation work

Before I respond to your inquiry, I must state that we have not spoken, I have not reviewed the relevant documents and facts, and I do not represent you. Therefore, my discussion below is not a legal opinion, but is informational only. Finally, my discussion applies only to issues to which Pennsylvania, New Jersey or Federal law apply, unless otherwise specified. That being said, he appears to be extorting you. His actions may veer far into criminal territory. If he had subs, then they are generally his responsibility to pay, although you may find that you have to pay them and then collect from him. He sounds like a bad apple at best. You need to meet with an attorney ASAP to discuss your situation. /Christopher E. Ezold/ The Ezold Law Firm, P.C. One Belmont Avenue, Suite 501 Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 (610) 660-5585 [email protected] www.ezoldlaw.com

There are a whole host of issues here, including not having a contract for the work, asking subcontractors to contact the owner with no privity, the mechanic's lien (which looks frivolous on its face) and the extortion element as the previous commentor stated. Talk to an attorney right away to preserve your rights, and before this matter gets worse.

Your fact pattern indicates numerous violations by the contractor, including violations of the Consumer Fraud Act, which could expose him to additional damages. However, if he is a vet on disability, suing him is unlikely to produce any tangible results. As to a contractor's lien, based again only on the limited facts you provided, I doubt that one could be validly filed; if someone does file one, it would be open to challenge. I strongly suggest that you contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case in full.