If someone in Connecticut hired a contractor for services, repairs, or another type of work on their property, they probably signed a contract that outlines and governs the details of that work. These types of contracts often govern other issues related to the services, repairs, or other type of work, including:
- A description of the services, repairs, or other type of work;
- An estimate of what it will cost to complete the services, repairs, or other type of work;
- A deadline for when the services, repairs, or other type of work are supposed to be completed.
If the contractor who was hired does not finish the services, repairs, or another type of work per the contract, the other party may file a lawsuit in a court of law. There are certain problems or issues that can arise for which an individual can file a lawsuit, including:
- Not completing or performing all of the services, repairs, or another type of work that was required under the contract;
- Missing deadlines;
- Not completing the services, repairs, or other type of work in a satisfactory manner;
- Completing the services, repairs, or other type of work in such a way that violates local zoning ordinances or safety standards;
- Taking advantage of the property owner, such as by accepting money or deposits but not completing the services, repairs, or other type of work;
- Overcharging the individual for the services, repairs, or other type of work completed.
If a lawsuit against a Connecticut contractor becomes necessary, the party will most likely file their lawsuit in a civil court. When filing a lawsuit against a Connecticut contractor, it is very important to have the assistance of a local attorney in Connecticut.
What Are Some Legal Claims That Can Be Filed Against a Contractor?
There may be numerous reasons why an individual wants to sue a Connecticut contractor. However, common examples of claims that are filed against contractors include:
- Contract fraud
- Defective construction work
- Breach of contract
Contract Fraud
When a party to a contract knowingly makes a false claim to the other party that is intended to trick them into signing a contract, contract fraud has occurred. Contract fraud in a situation involving a contractor often arises when a contractor states that they will use a certain type of fixture or material when they know they will actually use one of lesser quality.
Defective Construction Work
Defective construction claims include services, repairs, or other types of work that have construction defects. Construction defects occur when a contractor does not handle the services, repairs, or other type of work in accordance with the reasonable expectations of the buyer or in a reasonable manner.
Defects in construction work can reduce a structure or property’s value. The main categories of construction defects include:
- A design deficiency
- A subsurface deficiency
- A material deficiency
- A construction deficiency
Breach of Contract
Breach of contract claims can be made if a number of issues arise, such as when contractors do not:
- Start the services, repairs, or another type of work;
- Meet the contract deadlines;
- Fully complete the services, repairs, or another type of work;
- Use the materials or fixtures listed in the contract.
This category of legal claim provides an individual with the opportunity to recover compensation, or monetary damages, for the services, repairs, or another type of work that were not completed or were not properly completed. With breach of contract claims, a contractor may be ordered to refund the owner for the services, repairs, or other type of work that was not completed.
A contractor may also have to pay for another party to complete the unfinished or incorrectly done services, repairs, or other type of work.
Can I Sue a Contractor Without a Contract?
A party to a contract may be able to sue a contractor even in situations where they did not sign a written contract if they are able to demonstrate that an oral contract was formed. One common example of this issue is when a contractor is hired to complete services, repairs, or other type of work.
If the owner can show that an oral contract was entered into for the services, repairs, or other type of work, a court may order that the contractor give the owner a refund for the services, repairs, or other type of work not finished or pay for someone else to finish it.
How Do I Sue for Breach of Contract?
When a party is considering suing a Connecticut contractor for a breach of contract, there are important steps to take before filing a claim. This includes reviewing the contract and other legal documents they signed.
Some contracts may require the parties to use arbitration or another type of alternative dispute resolution to resolve a dispute that arises from the contract. When a party files a lawsuit based on breach of contract, they will be required to show the following to be successful:
- A contract was, in fact, formed;
- That contract is valid under the laws of the State of Connecticut;
- The contractor did not do what they agreed to under the contract;
- The breach was substantial or material and not minor;
- The losses suffered by the individual who filed the lawsuit were caused by the breach; and
- The plaintiff’s losses can be calculated with a reasonable degree of certainty.
How Much Does It Cost to Sue a Contractor?
How much suing a contractor for poor workmanship costs will depend on many different issues, such as:
- The type of breach;
- The amount of damages the plaintiff requests;
- Whether there are multiple legal issues;
- Whether the party has legal representation;
- The size of the job;
- Whether the party files their claim in small claims court or civil court.
It is essential to have legal representation when suing a contractor because it can be a complex and stressful process. Having an attorney will provide the individual with an advantage because of the lawyer’s knowledge of Connecticut laws, construction issues, and building codes.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Contract Disputes?
The statute of limitations for written contract disputes in Connecticut is six years. The statute of limitations is a period of time in which an individual can bring a claim to court.
If the individual does not bring their claim within the time frame listed under the statute of limitations in their state, their case will be dismissed, and they will not be able to recover damages. This means that, in Connecticut, an individual has six years from the time a breach occurs to file their claim.
Do I Need an Attorney for Suing a Contractor?
If you have any issues with a contractor in Connecticut, it is essential to consult with a Connecticut contract lawyer. Your attorney can advise you regarding the requirements of a contract or other documents you signed and advise you on the best way forward for your claim.
At LegalMatch, you will have access to our database of pre-screened attorneys who can start helping you immediately. All you have to do is submit your legal issue on the website, and attorneys will respond within 24 hours.
The responses you receive will include information about the attorney, such as their background, education, and fees. In some cases, an attorney will offer a free consultation, which will allow you to evaluate whether they will be a good fit for your case and needs.
