Claiming vehicle without paying for repairs

[a1handy]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?
South Carolina.... I own a small auto paint and body facility. I quoted and individual a total price to repair accident damage and unrelated damage to a vehicle. About 2/3 of the way through the repairs the owner wanted reciepts for all parts and materials purchased to repair his vehicle or he wanted the quote reduced accordingly. His car is being repaired to insurance company standards both structurally and cosmetically. He has stated unless he recieves reciepts of what is done up to this point he wants service terminated and he will pick up the car. What can I do to insure I am paid for the parts and labor I already have invested in the repair. Can he claim the car as the owner without paying for the work already completed. How should I proceed

 

[justalayman]

first, you do not have to give him any receipts. People get this hair brained idea that you cannot make profit on the parts so they think that if they demand to see what you paid for the parts, they somehow believe they can demand you sell the parts at that price. Tell him to take a hike.

as to him taking the car:

figure out what he owes you for work to date and present him with a bill. When he pays you, let him have his car. If he pouts and shouts and will not leave your property, call the police to have him escorted off the property or what ever the police believe is applicable.

 

[a1handy]

You have the same opinion as I . I have since submitted an invoice for services rendered to date. I also have discovered the person who brought the automobile for repairs is not the registered owner. I have advised him that from this point forward I will only negotiate with the registered owner.

 

[justalayman]

I also have discovered the person who brought the automobile for repairs is not the registered owner. .

Uh oh! You might have a problem cooking.