Word of mouth agreement with contractor… do I have to pay more now?

Hawaii Law Forum
1

So I had a word-of-mouth agreement with a contractor to do some earth moving, but now they’re asking for way more money than we first talked about. We never signed anything. Do I actually have to pay up?

2

Hmm, if nothing was signed, it’s hard for them to enforce it. Verbal agreements can be tricky.

3

Skyler said:
Hmm, if nothing was signed, it’s hard for them to enforce it. Verbal agreements can be tricky.

Yeah, that’s what I was thinking too. They didn’t even finish the job, and it’s just a mess now.

4

IDK but maybe get an independent contractor to look at what’s been done? Then at least you’ll know what the work they did is actually worth.

5

Amal said:
IDK but maybe get an independent contractor to look at what’s been done? Then at least you’ll know what the work they did is actually worth.

Good call, thanks! So I just ask for an estimate or invoice from another contractor?

6

Amal said:
IDK but maybe get an independent contractor to look at what’s been done? Then at least you’ll know what the work they did is actually worth.

Exactly! Once you have that, it’s easier to argue what you actually owe, if anything.

7

If you do decide to pay, get the final amount in writing so they can’t ask for more later. Even just an email.

8

Lennon said:
If you do decide to pay, get the final amount in writing so they can’t ask for more later. Even just an email.

Good idea! So a text counts as ‘in writing’ too?

9

Lennon said:
If you do decide to pay, get the final amount in writing so they can’t ask for more later. Even just an email.

Yup, but email might be better for clarity.

10

I’ve dealt with something similar… you could also let them know in writing to stop any work and keep them off the property.

11

Fifer said:
I’ve dealt with something similar… you could also let them know in writing to stop any work and keep them off the property.

Makes sense! I hadn’t thought of that—thank you!

12

Don’t worry, your questions aren’t silly! Better to ask than to make a decision you regret.

13

Fable said:
Don’t worry, your questions aren’t silly! Better to ask than to make a decision you regret.

Thanks, I was starting to feel like I was asking too many questions :joy: