Contractor wants his money, but I don't want to pay... yet

[Brian R.]

I just had 2 days worth of work done in my first investment property.

I paid the GC half of the job's total before work began.

It all took two days and I'm pleased with the results. Upon reviewing the work last night [after all workers had left] I noticed something strange sticking out of the floor. It's small and looks like it came up from the basement ceiling and is now poking through the living room hardwood floor.

I immediately emailed the GC a picture to ask what it was. [He doesn't know]

My question is, am I right to have the contractors [either sub or general] come and address this before paying?

My thoughts/fears are, if I pay the rest of the bill then they will not be motivated to fix or remedy this.

I feel awkward saying, "I won't pay you until after this is done", but that feels like the safest bet for my own best interests. Plus, as a contractor they have the protections of always being able to take a lien out on the property.

I hear it's better to owe them then have them owe you... any and all thoughts are welcome!