Homeownder does not pay for gardening; no written contract

[spurtster]

CA

I did some work for about $400, but caused damage to sprinkler system. could not fully finish work, so gave a discount of 100.
Homeowner claims that it cost $300 to fix which I think is more than the damage. Since there is no contract, how can I prove that the work was done.

 

[longneck]

you don't need a contract. send them a bill. if you don't get paid, take them to court. here is how it will go:

you: i did work. i billed them $300. they didn't pay the bill.
judge [to them]: was the work done?
them: yes, but he did $300 dollars in damage to the sprinkler system. here is the bill for the damage.
judge [to you]: did you cause the damage to the sprinklers?
you: yes.
judge: i rule for the plaintiff in the amount of $300, minus $300 for the damage to the sprinklers.

 

[artsyart]

wrong thread

 

[spurtster]

So there is no point in suing then, if I read correctly. Would judge grant filing fees or service costs?

Do they have to prove that I did the damage or show anything else. There were only a few plastic pipes broken. It can't be $300.

How would I prove I did the work if they for example said they don't know me or something...

you don't need a contract. send them a bill. if you don't get paid, take them to court. here is how it will go:

you: i did work. i billed them $300. they didn't pay the bill.
judge [to them]: was the work done?
them: yes, but he did $300 dollars in damage to the sprinkler system. here is the bill for the damage.
judge [to you]: did you cause the damage to the sprinklers?
you: yes.
judge: i rule for the plaintiff in the amount of $300, minus $300 for the damage to the sprinklers.