Skip to main content

Home improvement contractor dispute and MA consumer protection law

We are trying to resolve a dispute with our home improvement contractor over a relatively small amount ($1,200, the cost of a replacement bathtub). The guy is not going to pay us, that much seems clear. We know his guys dropped the tub causing the crack, but they deny it, even though I inspected the tub when it was delivered and it was fine. What are my options here under MA consumer protection law. I can't hire an attorney for that amount, but I don't wont this guy getting away with this.

Editor's Response

The whole area of home improvement disputes is covered by the Massachusetts Home Improvement Contractor Law, M.G.L. Chapter 142A.  Section 3(a) of that Chapter allows a party to such a dispute to seek damages in the superior court, the district court, or the small claims division of the district court.  Small claims might be a good option because of the relatively small amount involved.  However, you should take a close look at your contract to see if there is an arbitration clause requiring you to seek arbitration before proceeding to court.  Also, check out the website of the MA Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation for information about the arbitration program established by the Home Improvement Contractor Law: http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ocahomepage&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoca.  Click on the icon in the lower left corner of the home page. Good luck.


Recent Posts about Massachusetts Laws

Recent Posts about Massachusetts Laws

ForumLast post
I have had these tenants that owe me about 3500 thru 3 years , how do Istart the eviction, Isent them a letter....
3/10/2010 19:28
by DirtyHarry
I read an article recently about parent coordinators in the state of Vermont and was impressed by the concept.....
Yes, they are legal and used, but not as intertwined in the court syst....
3/10/2010 06:56
by Crabby
I have been employed in a medical facility for the past 9 years with excellent written reviews and letters ....
Thanks...Could you recommend an attorney in Massachusetts... I have a....
3/9/2010 16:22
by scottsman
I read the other post about the medical malpractice tribunals in Massachusetts but I'm curious about how the t....
The panel is comprised of a judge, a doctor, a lawyer and preside....
3/9/2010 05:53
by Wookie
I grew up in Massachusetts however now reside in the Carolinas. At Christmas time I was pulled over and was to....
I found this information on the Massachusetts Court System web site (D....
3/8/2010 09:49
by Anonymous
A year ago I bought a condo in MA and later discovered that the downstairs neighbor played loud music almost e....
I suppose . . . IF the problem was severe and if the broker knew about....
3/8/2010 06:58
by Anonymous
I know that's something you're supposed to ask a lawyer before you hire one (at least according to one of your....
No, there is no law that requires attorneys in Massachusetts (personal....
3/6/2010 06:02
by CharlesT
I "purchased" some clothing recently from a store in Boston and placed the items on lay away. I found the des....
First of all, thank you very much for the compliment.  It's nice ....
3/5/2010 10:21
by Anonymous
I'm in the middle of trying to get my SSDI disability payments and I already sent in my medical records when I....
I'm not privy to the status of your application for disability benefit....
3/5/2010 06:27
by CarlH
I've been advised by relatives that under Massachusetts law, the executor of a will is entitled to 1/3(one-thi....
No.  The short answer to the question is that there is no Ma....
3/2/2010 17:42
by massresident