If something goes wrong: the homeowner's recourse map
When work on your home goes wrong, every formal path to a fix starts with the same request: show us your documentation. This guide maps who to contact for what — and what evidence each path expects.
First, your evidence pack
Whatever route you take, gather these before you file anything. If the project ran through Bee Your GC, your record already holds them:
- The signed estimate or contract, with its scope of work
- Proof of every payment, and what each payment was for
- Photos before, during, and after the work
- Your messages with the contractor
- Permits, inspection reports, and warranties
1. Start with a direct conversation
Most problems resolve fastest between you and your pro, and a documented record keeps that conversation factual. Share what you see, point to the signed scope, and give them a chance to make it right.
2. Your state's contractor licensing board
Licensing boards take complaints against licensed contractors and can discipline or revoke a license. Many states also run recovery funds that can reimburse homeowners harmed by a licensed contractor — one more reason to verify a license before you hire.
Find your state's licensing board (NASCLA) ↗3. Small claims court
A money dispute below your state's limit can go to small claims court without a lawyer. Bring the signed estimate, payment records, photos, and messages — the judge's first questions are about exactly these. Your state court's self-help center explains the local process.
4. Your state attorney general
State consumer-protection offices investigate fraud and deceptive practices. Even when they can't recover your money directly, your complaint builds the case that stops the next homeowner from being harmed.
Find your attorney general ↗5. Report fraud to the FTC
If you were deceived — fake credentials, a vanished deposit, a bait-and-switch — report it to the Federal Trade Commission. Reports feed the enforcement cases that shut these operations down.
Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov ↗6. Insurance claim disputes
If your insurer denies or underpays a claim, your state insurance department takes complaints and can review how the claim was handled. Your documented before-and-after condition is the core of that review.
Find your state insurance department (NAIC) ↗7. Financing and mortgage problems
Problems with a home-improvement loan, financing company, or mortgage servicer go to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Companies are required to respond to CFPB complaints.
Submit a CFPB complaint ↗8. Unsafe products and recalls
If an appliance or product in your home is recalled or dangerous, check and report it with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Your home inventory's model and serial numbers make this a two-minute check.
Check CPSC recalls ↗This guide is general information, not legal advice, and processes vary by state. For legal conclusions about your specific situation, talk to a licensed attorney.