The short answer
Start with Your Contract
Your first step is to reread the contract you signed before the work began. Look for any clauses about workmanship, completion standards, or dispute resolution. Many agreements describe what a finished job should look like, and that wording can be your anchor when you talk to the pros.
If the contract spells out specific results, such as drying a crawlspace to a certain moisture level or removing all visible mold, then you have a clear basis to ask for a refund or for them to redo the work. If the contract is vague, you may still have rights under consumer protection laws, but your leverage is weaker without written specifics.
Document the Problems
Before you contact anyone, take clear photos and videos of the areas that are not finished properly. Note dates, times, and what was supposed to be done versus what actually happened. Keep receipts, emails, and any written updates from the pros. This evidence becomes your record if you need to escalate.
Also write down what you asked for and what the pros said they would do. If you spoke on the phone, summarize the call in an email to them afterward. That creates a paper trail that can help you later, whether you are negotiating a refund or filing a complaint with your payment provider.
- Take photos from multiple angles and distances
- Save all email and text exchanges
- Note the date and time of each conversation
- List every unfinished or damaged area
- Keep a copy of your signed contract handy
- Write down any verbal commitments from the pros
Talk to the Pros First
Reach out to the pros who did the work and explain what you found, calmly and specifically. Ask them to return and fix the issues or to refund part of the payment. Many disputes are resolved this way, especially if the problems are minor or if the pros value their reputation in the community.
If you live in the Pacific Northwest, local pros may be familiar with the wet winters and dry summers that can affect drying times and material behavior. Mentioning that you understand the local conditions might help you have a more productive conversation about what is realistic.
Dispute with Your Payment Method
If the pros do not respond or refuse to make things right, you can contact your credit card issuer or bank. Many card issuers allow you to dispute a charge for services that were not provided as described. You will likely need to submit your documentation and explain why the work was unsatisfactory.
Be aware that chargebacks are not automatic, and the card issuer will review both sides. You may be asked for a written statement and copies of your evidence. This process can take a few weeks, but it is a legitimate path if you paid by card and the work fell short.
Check Your Insurance Policy
Your homeowners insurance might cover the cost of repairing damage that was caused by a botched restoration job, such as new water leaks or structural issues. Review your policy to see if it includes coverage for faulty workmanship or contractor errors. Some policies exclude this, while others offer limited protection.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. If you think your policy might apply, file a claim and let the insurer investigate. They may send an adjuster to inspect the work and determine if the damage is covered. This can be a slower route, but it is worth checking if the repair costs are high.
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Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to ask for a refund?
The deadline depends on your contract and your state's laws. Many contracts include a period for requesting fixes, often 30 days to a year. After that, you may still have a claim under consumer protection laws, but the window varies. Check your contract and act quickly.
What if the pros say the damage was already there?
If the pros claim the damage existed before their work, you need to show otherwise. Your before-and-after photos, inspection reports, or written notes from the initial walkthrough can help. If you have no evidence, it becomes your word against theirs, which is harder to resolve. Keep records from the start.
Can I withhold the final payment until the work is done right?
Withholding payment can be risky. If your contract says payment is due upon completion, and the work is not complete to the agreed standard, you may have a right to withhold. However, the pros might place a lien on your home. Talk to them first and consider a partial hold while issues are resolved.