If you run into serious issues with your contractor, remodeler or handyman, these L&I resources can help you to decide what to do. Choose the scenario that best fits your circumstance or what you would like to know about.

Dispute Resolution Options (29 KB PDF)

Common problems with contractors

• The contractor left and did not complete the job.

  If you cannot resolve serious problems with a contractor, you can file suit against their bond.
  > Filing a suit against a contractor (and their bonding agent).
  > Filing a suit against an electrical contractor.

• The job was not done to the contract specifications.

  If you cannot resolve serious problems with a contractor, you can file suit against their bond.
  > Filing a suit against a contractor (and their bonding agent).
  > Filing a suit against an electrical contractor.

• The contractor's work on your property resulted in damage to persons and/or property.

  Damage caused to person or property due to negligence of the contractor may be covered by their liability policy. You may need to contact their insurer directly to make a claim. Your registered contractor insurance policy number and coverage amount are listed on the L&I Web site at Look Up A Contractor, Electrician, Plumber or Elevator Professional.
  
  Employees who sustain injuries while working on your property are covered by the workers compensation and industrial insurance policy. You can verify if your contractor's workers are covered by checking Verify Workers' Comp Premium Status.

• You receive a notice of intent to lien.

  If you receive a lien notice, take it seriously. Let your contractor know you have received the notice. Find out what arrangements they have made to pay the sender of the notice.
  
  See What you should know about liens for more information.

Some helpful suggestions

• If your contract exceeds $1,000, get a disclosure statement from your contractor.

  If your contract exceeds $1,000, Washington laws — RCW 18.27.114(1) or (2) — require contractors to have you sign a disclosure statement. The disclosure statement gives you information about your rights, responsibilities and how to protect yourself. The contractor must keep a copy on file for 3 years, you should also request a copy for your records.

• Ask your lending institution how they make sure a contractor is paying their bills.

  If you are dealing with a lending institution, ask your loan officer what precautions the lending institution takes. Specifically, ask how the institution will verify that subcontractors and material suppliers are being paid by the contractor.