What kind of lawyer do I need for a dispute with a home improvement contractor?

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We are having problems with our home renovation contractor. Basically the problem is that he hasn't been here for more than 2 months and is now refusing to come back to complete the work until we pay another installment. Our problem is that we are not satisfied with some of the work done so far and feel that he has not completed everything required for the next installment. Our hope is to get out of the contract and have another contractor finish the project. Should we go specifically to a lawyer that deals with contract law or would a general litigation, etc. lawyer suffice?

Attorney Answers

4
Christopher Edward EzoldHealth Care LawyerBala Cynwyd, PA ·
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, you are going to need a lawyer that is familiar with contracts, consumer protection issues and who litigates. Such an attorney shouldn't be hard to find; contact your local county bar association if you don't know of one. The biggest problem you are facing is that many small home improvement contractors who engage in the behavior you describe likely doesn't have the money to pay you back. They also don't have the money to sue you if you terminate the contract, which may be all you are looking for. You should speak with an attorney, however, before terminating. If you would like to discuss this matter further, please feel free to contact me at the below address(es) or telephone number. /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
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Martin Bearg ·
Hillsdale is located in Bergen County. Nonetheless I can recommend an attorney in Summit, NJ named Andrew Smith, whose telephone number is 973-206-1725. Good luck. BTW: You can contact the Better Business Bureauu, Angie's List and the NJ Dept. of Consumer Affairs, which licenses contractors if the contractor is unwilling to make corrections, and you should have the town's Code Enforcement Officer look at the work to insure he has complied with all State and municipal building Codes. If you need a new contractor Wayne Miller @ 201-650-9298 or Chris Dundar , who can be reached through John Hawk 973-635-9494, are both great contractors.
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James Fant ·
You should contact an attorney who is experienced in handling contract and consumer fraud matter. There are specific regulations that govern home improvement contractors. If a home improvement contractor violates these regulations or otherwise engages in fraudulent conduct, you may be entitled to treble (i.e. triple damages) and attorney’s fees.
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