What are the rights of a contractor against unpaid contractors?
In West Virginia, a contractor has legal rights against unpaid contractors. Contractors can bring a claim for breach of contract. This claim means that the contractor says that the other party failed to perform according to the terms of the contract. A contractor can also bring a claim for quantum meruit. This claim means that the contractor is asking to be compensated for the reasonable value of services provided. Finally, a contractor can bring a claim for unjust enrichment. This claim means that the other party received a benefit at the contractor’s expense. If a contractor is having difficulty getting payment from an unpaid contractor, the contractor can take advantage of the lien rights they have in West Virginia. A lien is a legal claim against a piece of property. This means that the contractor can prevent the owner from selling the property until the debt is paid. The contractor would need to follow certain procedures in order to successfully put a lien on the property. These procedures can be found in the West Virginia Code. In addition to the legal remedies listed above, a contractor also has the option to take the other party to court. If the other party refuses to pay, the contractor can file a lawsuit in order to collect the payment. This is the most extreme measure a contractor can take, and it should only be done as a last resort. In West Virginia, a contractor has many rights against unpaid contractors. These rights include bringing a claim for breach of contract, quantum meruit, or unjust enrichment, taking advantage of lien rights, and filing a lawsuit. By understanding these rights, a contractor is in the best position to resolve any payment disputes they may have with an unpaid contractor.
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