Can You Finish a Job Another Contractor Walked Off?

Some of the hardest calls we get start with, "We had someone else, and they never finished."

Half a fence. Posts in the ground but no panels. A yard that's been dug up for weeks. And a contractor who's stopped answering.

If that's you, you're not alone. Reviews are full of people who had to end a contract halfway and find someone new.

Can another contractor take over?

Usually, yes. But it's not as simple as picking up where they left off.

The new contractor needs to check what's already been done. Are the posts at the right depth? Are they straight? Is the concrete sound? Sometimes the existing work is fine. Sometimes it has to come out.

Before you hire someone new

1. Take photos of everything as it stands.
2. Keep your contract, invoices and messages.
3. If you paid a deposit and the work wasn't done, contact the QBCC about your options.
4. Ask the new contractor to inspect the existing work before quoting.

How we approach it

We'll come out, look at what's there, and tell you honestly what can stay and what needs redoing. We won't rip out good work just to make the job bigger.

Stuck with an unfinished job? Call us on 07 2141 7748 or get in touch.

This article is general information only and not legal advice. For disputes about unfinished work or deposits, contact the QBCC for guidance.