Contractor refuses to pay the remainder

[sako]

the contractor contacts me in June asking to prepare a plat map showing the building and it's dimensions to the front property line. I write the contract to property owner's name, the contractor gets OK from the owner and agree to sign and pay at the site. on 6/8 He pays the retainer, somehow I forget to ask him to sign ( but I have all the email and text records proving he agreed to contract), on 6/16 the plat map is ready, but the contractor is out of town. He is back on 6/25 asking to meet, I send him my home office address, he never respond until 7/10, he text that the owner cancel the contract due to taking too long.
I finally got the phone number of the owner, called and explained to them that the contractor owes me $1000. They confirm that it took long and it was their decision. I told them I will ask contractor to pay, and I will seek legal advice. I mentioned that my job was done and he failed to pick up the map. I also told them that legally they are liable for paying the remainder.
I left a message to the contractor asking for final payment.
I would like to hear your opinion.

[wingding]

Stock market scared the owner into waiting

[mpallamary]

Issue a demand letter. Give him 10 days. if he does not pay, sue all of them in small claims court. They will probably settle.

[hellsangle]

I almost NEVER contract with anyone other than the owner of record. If so, I demand deposit of the full amount of the estimate. When our services are time-driven . . . drop everything and get 'er done - all the more to demand a full deposit. If there is a remainder balance it is easier to refund it when the survey has been completed. (I realize all the pain frustration and time you are now having collecting what is due - it's costly. And you're not getting paid for these postings here, phone calls, demand letters, etc.)

Good luck.

Phil's Two Cents from Sonoma

[land butcher]

Issue a demand letter. Give him 10 days. if he does not pay, sue all of them in small claims court. They will probably settle.

Yep.