Do I need a written contract for foundation repair ?

[Jim718]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? TX

I have an old house on pier beam foundation. I am getting the house leveled and a gentleman told me that he will do it for $2500. Would a verbal agreement be adequate? I doubt this guy knows how to draw up a contract. He wrote his references on a sheet of notebook paper. The 3 references I called said that he does good work. I was considering getting him to write down what he plans to do regarding repairs and the total price.....then we could both sign. Or he could sell me and I could type up a simple document in Word and we could sign. I think he is one of these "a handshake is my word" guys. I don't want to offend him by asking him to put things in writing. Any advice?What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

 

[justalayman]

a written contract with all of the details of the agreement is a really good idea. While a verbal contract is enforceable, it is a real problem proving any claims you make as being part of the contract.

 

[Kiawah]

Oh, I thought it would be okay to take 4 months from start to finish, I had other jobs I was working on as well.

No, I wanted to get paid when I was half way complete.

You mean I was supposed to maintain my own insurance while I was working under your house?

Sorry about those windows cracking, the jack slipped out. Never had that happen before in the thirty years I've been doing this.

 

[Hole9yard]

If you don't trust this guy: go with your instincts. There are plenty other contractors out there. If mistrust is there when you first start it most likely won't get better