Finding “plumber did not do work that was on the invoice” on your final bill is frustrating and stressful. You trusted a professional to complete specific tasks, yet you’re being charged for services never rendered. Don’t worry—you have clear, actionable steps to protect your money and hold the contractor accountable.
What to Do When a Plumber Did Not Do Work That Was On the Invoice
If you discover that a plumber did not do work that was on the invoice, act quickly but calmly. Start by comparing the invoice line-by-line with your original written estimate or contract. Highlight every discrepancy. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), home service complaints rank among the top 10 consumer fraud categories annually, with billing disputes representing nearly 30% of contractor-related reports.
Pro Tip: Always request a detailed, written estimate before work begins. Verbal agreements are difficult to enforce.
Next, document everything. Take dated photos of the work area showing incomplete tasks. Save all communication—texts, emails, voicemails. This evidence becomes critical if you escalate the dispute.
How Can I Prove the Plumber Didn’t Complete the Job?
Proof is your strongest ally. Here’s a concrete checklist to build your case:
| Evidence Type | What to Collect | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Written Contract | Original scope of work, pricing, timeline | Establishes agreed-upon deliverables |
| Photos/Videos | Time-stamped visuals of incomplete work | Visual proof of non-performance |
| Communication Logs | Emails, texts, call notes with dates | Shows attempts to resolve issues |
| Third-Party Inspection | Report from another licensed plumber | Independent verification of incomplete work |
| Payment Records | Receipts, credit card statements, canceled checks | Confirms what you paid vs. what was delivered |
A 2024 study by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) found that consumers who provided documented evidence resolved billing disputes 3x faster than those who relied on verbal claims alone.
What Are My Legal Rights When a Contractor Overcharges?
U.S. consumer protection laws vary by state, but core principles apply nationwide:
- Breach of Contract: If a plumber fails to perform agreed-upon work, they’ve breached the contract. You may withhold payment for incomplete items or seek restitution.
- Unjust Enrichment: Legally, a contractor cannot profit from work they didn’t perform.
- State Licensing Boards: Most states require plumbers to hold active licenses. Filing a complaint with your state’s contractor licensing board can trigger investigations, fines, or license suspension.
For broader context on consumer rights, refer to the Wikipedia article on Consumer protection, which outlines foundational U.S. laws like the FTC Act and state-level “Home Solicitation Sales” statutes.
Important: Small claims court is often the fastest, lowest-cost path for disputes under $10,000. Filing fees typically range from $30–$100.
Step-by-Step: How to Dispute the Invoice and Recover Your Money
Follow this concrete, numbered process to maximize your success:
- Review & Annotate the Invoice (Day 1)
Print the invoice. Use a highlighter to mark every line item not completed. Write brief notes: “Not done – see photo 3.” - Contact the Plumber in Writing (Day 1–2)
Send a polite but firm email:“Per our agreement dated [date], line items #4 and #7 were not completed. I request a revised invoice reflecting only work performed. Please respond within 5 business days.”
Keep a copy. Use certified mail if emailing feels insufficient. - Request a Third-Party Inspection (Day 3–5)
Hire another licensed plumber ($75–$150 typical fee) to assess the work. Ask for a written report stating exactly what’s missing. This neutral documentation strengthens your position significantly. - File a Formal Complaint (Day 6–10)
If the plumber refuses to adjust the invoice:- Submit a complaint to your state’s contractor licensing board
- File with the BBB (bbb.org)
- Report to the FTC via ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- Pursue Small Claims Court (If Needed)
Prepare your evidence packet: contract, invoice, photos, inspection report, communication logs. Most courts allow self-representation. Bring 3 copies of your packet—one for you, one for the judge, one for the defendant.
Plumber Invoice Dispute: Quick Comparison Table
| Approach | Time Required | Cost | Success Rate* | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Negotiation | 1–3 days | $0 | ~45% | Minor discrepancies, good-faith errors |
| BBB Mediation | 2–4 weeks | $0 | ~65% | Moderate disputes, licensed contractors |
| State Licensing Board | 4–12 weeks | $0 | ~75% | Serious fraud, unlicensed work |
| Small Claims Court | 1–3 months | $30–$100 | ~85% | Clear evidence, amounts <$10K |
*Based on aggregated BBB and state board resolution data (2023–2024)
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
Can I refuse to pay the full invoice if work wasn’t completed?
Yes. You legally owe payment only for services actually rendered. Withhold payment for incomplete items, but pay for verified completed work to avoid claims of “bad faith” on your part.
What if the plumber threatens to put a lien on my home?
Mechanic’s liens require strict legal procedures. In most states, a plumber cannot file a valid lien for work not performed. If threatened, contact your state’s contractor board immediately—they often provide free guidance.
How long do I have to dispute a plumbing invoice?
Statutes of limitations vary: typically 2–4 years for breach of contract, but act within 30–60 days for fastest resolution. Delaying weakens your evidence and credibility.
Should I hire a lawyer for a $500 dispute?
Usually not. Small claims court is designed for self-representation. However, if the dispute exceeds $5,000 or involves property damage, consult a consumer rights attorney (many offer free initial consultations).
Can I leave a negative online review?
Yes—under the Consumer Review Fairness Act (2016), businesses cannot penalize you for honest reviews. Stick to facts: “Invoice listed pipe replacement under sink; work not completed as of [date].” Avoid emotional language to stay protected.
What if the plumber was referred by a friend?
Friendship doesn’t override contracts. Handle the dispute professionally using the steps above. Preserving relationships is important, but so is financial fairness.
Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself and Share Knowledge
Discovering that a plumber did not do work that was on the invoice is never pleasant—but you’re not powerless. By documenting thoroughly, communicating clearly, and leveraging consumer protections, you can recover costs and prevent future issues.
Remember: Prevention beats reaction. Always get written estimates, verify licenses via your state’s online portal, and pay with credit cards (which offer dispute protections) for home services over $100.
✅ Found this guide helpful? Share it with friends, family, or neighborhood groups on Facebook, Nextdoor, or WhatsApp. Empowering others with knowledge strengthens our entire community against unfair billing practices.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information, not legal advice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed attorney or your state consumer protection agency.
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