Can you collect for extra work that was never put in writing?

Work it through

You're the contractor. Pick what you'd do, then see how each choice plays out.

Sarah Mitchell

First-time homeowner who wants a kitchen renovation

Listen

1. AShow her the granite countertops and undercabinet lighting she requested, acknowledge you should have documented it, and negotiate a fair resolution
   Lesson learned

   You installed $4,200 in upgrades she asked for, but without written authorization you have weak standing. She may agree to pay part of it, but she's within her rights to hold to the contract price. The lesson: ALWAYS document changes in writing before performing the work. A 5-minute change order saves a $4,200 argument.

2. BRefuse to hand over the final inspection paperwork until she pays the full amount
   Wrong

   Withholding inspection paperwork or certificates of completion as leverage is coercive and can be considered a violation. The contract price is $22,000. Without a signed change order, you authorized the additional work at your own risk. Filing an MHIC complaint is Sarah's natural next step, and the Commission will look at the contract, not your verbal recollection.