How to File a Complaint Against a Contractor

Before Filing Complaints

1. Document everything – photos, videos, receipts, contracts, texts, emails
2. Try direct resolution first – put concerns in writing, give reasonable time to respond
3. Send a formal written complaint – certified mail, return receipt
4. Review your contract – check for dispute resolution clauses
5. Consult your state’s contractor laws – know your rights

Where to File Complaints

Option	Best For	Typical Timeline
State Licensing Board	Licensed contractor violations	30-90 days
Better Business Bureau	General complaints, mediation	30-45 days
Small Claims Court	Monetary damages under limit	30-60 days
Consumer Protection Agency	Fraud, deceptive practices	60-120 days
Civil Court/Attorney	Large damages, complex cases	6-18 months

State Licensing Board

If the contractor is licensed, the state board is your best first step:

• What they can do: Investigate, discipline, suspend/revoke license, order restitution
• What they can’t do: Force payment (usually), represent you in court
• How to file: Online form or written complaint with documentation
• What to include: Contract, photos, correspondence, timeline of events

Better Business Bureau (BBB)

• How it works: BBB contacts contractor, requests response, offers mediation
• Success rate: About 70% of complaints are resolved
• Impact: Unresolved complaints affect BBB rating, visible to future customers
• Cost: Free to file

Small Claims Court

For monetary damages under your state’s limit (typically $5,000-$10,000):

1. Check your state’s limit – varies from $2,500 to $25,000
2. File at local courthouse – usually $30-$100 filing fee
3. Serve the contractor – they must be notified of the suit
4. Prepare your case – organize all documentation
5. Attend the hearing – present your evidence to judge
6. Collect if you win – may require additional steps

What to Bring to Small Claims

• Signed contract
• All change orders
• Payment receipts/canceled checks
• Photos: before, during, after
• All written communications
• Estimates from other contractors to fix problems
• Timeline of events
• Witness statements (if applicable)

Online Reviews

Honest reviews help other homeowners and often prompt contractor response:

• Google Business Profile – most visible to searchers
• Yelp – popular for service businesses
• HomeAdvisor/Angi – contractor-specific platforms
• Facebook – if contractor has business page

When to Hire an Attorney

Consider legal representation when:

• Damages exceed small claims limits
• Contractor threatens legal action against you
• Contract has complex legal terms
• Structural damage or safety issues involved
• Insurance claims are denied
• Contractor files mechanics lien against your property

Protect Yourself for Next Time

• Verify license and insurance before hiring
• Get detailed written contracts
• Use milestone-based payments
• Never pay more than 10% upfront
• Document everything from day one
• Check references and reviews