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All Mailings:

PO Box 9316

Boston, MA 02114

P: 508.922.8328

F: 866.700.0181

By Appt. Only:

7 Liberty Square, 2nd Fl

Boston, MA 02109

81 Prospect St.

Gloucester, MA 01930

Contractor Disputes

Home Improvement Contract Disputes

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The nature of the contractor-homeowner relationship is unique, and one that can invariably lead to heated disputes. Homeowners generally feel at a disadvantage, due to the specialized knowledge required to estimate costs, time, and complete the project. Contractors often have difficulty accurately predicting costs, and change-orders or modifications arise. An attorney can be an ally for any project, and a proactive approach can prevent disputes.

Proactive Advice Can Prevent Disagreements

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With respect to large scale projects, additions, and renovations, homeowners should consult an attorney prior to signing or negotiating contracts. Legal fees paid at the outset, can potentially save money, time, and stress in the event of a dispute. The benefits of preventative legal oversight cannot be overstated. A small expenditure at the onset is far more effective than addressing a dispute after it has occurred. For smaller projects, a little preparation can ensure your project is more likely to proceed in a satisfactory manner.

Homeowners in the Commonwealth have significant rights pursuant to the Home Improvement Contractor Act. For example, the following is a brief list of contractor requirements:

All contracts over $1,000.00 MUST be in writing.;
The contract must include the contractor's name, start and completion dates, description of the work, total contract amount, and signatures of all parties;
Contractor MUST NOT demand a deposit greater than 1/3rd of the contract total;
Final payments cannot be demanded until all parties are "satisfied";
The contract must list all required permits;
The contractor's registration number MUST appear on the contract, the permits, and any advertising;
The contractor MUST adhere to all building codes and regulations;

...and this is just a small sampling of your potential rights under the laws and regulations pursuant to home improvement contracts.

What Do I Do In the Event of a Dispute with my Contractor?

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If you are a homewoner experiencing even minor issues with your home improvement contractor - call this office immediately. Generally, the earlier one seeks to improve a dispute, the better the potential outcome. Further, if you are a residential contractor experiencing difficulty with a particular client, contact this office for a review of the facts and circumstances. This office strives to work with both contractors and homeowners to attain reasonable outcomes.

Call Today

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Please feel free to contact this office via phone 508.922.8328, fax 866.700.0181, or email to info@bacelaw.com, and if your matter is urgent, indicate that you require an immediate response and someone will contact you without delay.

We regularly serve clients throughout the Metrowest, South Shore and North Shore of Massachusetts, including Suffolk County, Middlesex County, Norfolk County, Plymouth County, Essex County, Worcester County, Bristol County, Barnstable County, Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, Dorchester, Roxbury, Cambridge, Framingham, Natick, Lowell, Malden, Somerville, Waltham, Woburn, Brookline, Dedham, Quincy, Brockton, Plymouth, Lawrence, Lynn, Salem, Gloucester, Rockport, Beverly, Peabody, Danvers, Worcester, Fall River and New Bedford.

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