What Counts as Shoddy Work?
Not every imperfection rises to the level of legal action. In Florida, a contractor may be liable if the work is:
- Defective or unsafe (for example, a leaking roof after a “repair”).
- Incomplete (the job is left half-done).
- Below industry standards (the workmanship fails to meet building codes or accepted practices).
Why Licensing Matters in Florida
Florida law requires most contractors to be licensed. If you hired someone unlicensed, you may have extra remedies under Florida statutes. For example, courts often view unlicensed contractors as having fewer defenses, and in some cases you may even recover the money you paid them.
What Are Your Legal Options?
- Small Claims Court: If your damages are under $8,000, you may file in small claims court for quicker resolution.
- Circuit Court Lawsuit: For larger claims, you may need to file a civil action in circuit court.
- Mediation or Settlement: Many disputes can be resolved through a negotiated settlement, especially if the contractor wants to avoid bad publicity.
Steps to Take Before Suing
- Document Everything: Take photos and keep records of contracts, payments, and communications.
- Get a Second Opinion: Another licensed contractor can inspect and confirm defective work.
- Send a Demand Letter: This formal notice can sometimes lead to resolution without filing a lawsuit.
- Consult a Lawyer: An attorney can help you evaluate damages and file properly.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve paid for work that wasn’t done right, you don’t have to just accept it. Florida law gives you tools to hold contractors accountable. By documenting the problem and taking the right legal steps, you can recover your losses and protect your home.
At Lipinski Civil Law, we guide clients through Florida contractor disputes with personal attention and proven results.