It's a nightmare scenario: your kitchen is torn apart, your bathroom is unusable, and your contractor has stopped returning calls. You're not alone — contractor abandonment is one of the most common complaints filed with the Indiana Attorney General.

First: Don't Panic

Before assuming the worst, try to make contact. Some contractors get overwhelmed or have emergencies. Give them 48-72 hours to respond to calls, texts, and emails before escalating.

Immediate Steps (First 72 Hours)

Step 1: Document Everything

Take photos/videos of current project state from every angle
Save all text messages, emails, and voicemails
Gather your contract, permits, receipts, and payment records
Note the date work stopped and last communication
Document any damage or safety hazards

Step 2: Attempt Contact (In Writing)

Send a formal written notice via certified mail (return receipt requested):

State the date work stopped
Reference your contract terms
Give them 5-7 business days to respond
State that you will pursue legal remedies if no response

Keep a copy of everything. This creates a paper trail for legal action.

Step 3: Secure Your Property

Lock up any openings if exterior work was started
Cover exposed areas to prevent weather damage
Turn off water/gas/electric if there are safety concerns
Do NOT throw away any materials the contractor left

If They Don't Respond (After 7 Days)

File a Complaint with the Indiana Attorney General

The AG's Consumer Protection Division handles contractor complaints.

Online: File a Complaint

Phone: 1-800-382-5516

Report to the Better Business Bureau

File a complaint with the BBB. While they can't force action, it creates a public record and may prompt the contractor to respond.

Contact Indianapolis Building Department

If permits were pulled, notify the building department. They may be able to help and will note the abandoned project in their records.

Consider Legal Action

Your options depend on the amount:

Under $8,000: Small claims court (no lawyer needed)
$8,000 - $10,000: Small claims or civil court
Over $10,000: Civil court (consider hiring an attorney)

Getting Your Project Finished

While pursuing the original contractor, you need to get your project completed:

Important: Get an Assessment First

Before hiring anyone new, have the work inspected. You need to know what was done correctly, what needs to be redone, and if there are hidden problems. This also documents the damage for any legal claims.

Get 2-3 contractors to assess and quote completing the work
Ask them to document problems with the previous work
Keep all quotes — these establish your damages for legal claims
Check if your homeowner's insurance covers any damage

Can You Get Your Money Back?

Honestly? It's difficult. Many contractors who abandon projects are either:

Already insolvent (no money to collect)
Operating under a business name with no assets
Difficult to locate

You may be able to recover money through:

Their insurance — if they had it and it covers abandonment
Small claims judgment — if they have assets to collect
Mechanic's lien — if you overpaid for work not completed
Credit card dispute — if you paid by card, dispute the charges

How to Prevent This From Happening

The best protection is prevention. For future projects:

Never pay more than 30% upfront
Tie payments to completed milestones
Hold 10-15% until final completion
Thoroughly vet contractors before hiring
Use a service like Vetted Crews that provides oversight

What to Do When Your Contractor Abandons Your Project