Best Way to End Relationship With Contractor

[Cortez Wilson]

Hello,

I have an investment property 3 hours away from me that’s getting rehabbed. My relationship with my contractor is going sour and I thinks it’s best that I move in a different direction. I paid him 25% in advance to start the next phase which is drywall but at this point I’m willing to count my losses. He hasn’t been at my property all week and I’ve had someone else start the next phase. My biggest concern is vandalism to my property once he finds out that I moved in another direction.

Has anyone else been in this situation, what’s the best way to handle this?

Thank you in advance.

[Steve Smith]

Cortez,
Sorry to hear about this. I know it's a bit too late, but a few things for next time: 
1. Have a penalty clause for timely performance. I could argue to give them some sort of grace period after which it costs the xxx a day. BUT, also have a bonus if they finish early.
2. NEVER EVER, pay a contractor in advance, unless you know them VERY well. Even for the little stuff. I got sloppy recently with $300 and guy said he would finish and I should pay him so he wouldn't have to drive across town for payment. Guy was gone. (We all make mistakes).
You might try to friendly negotiate this. Tell him your job is time critical and you really expected him to be there and you needed someone that who would work unsupervised and get the job done. Suggest he return your 25% and we part company. He just might comply, or he might jump on your job and get it done.
Would like to hear what other folks do.