Paid deposit dispute
I have a contract with a contractor for landscaping work, including fencing and other exterior work. He came to assess the project in April, with the intention of starting the work in July. Like many contractors, he required a deposit to reserve the date, which I paid.
We are now in mid-August, and the contractor has been avoiding my calls and messages. The last time we spoke was in mid-July, when he told me that the project was delayed because of the rain.
What concerns me is that, before that conversation, I had already gone about a week without receiving any response to my calls or texts. He only contacted me after I sent an official email stating that, if I did not receive a response, I would consider taking the matter to Small Claims Court. After that, he promised that he would start the work during the second week of August.
Today, I sent another email requesting an update so that everything would be documented in writing, but I have received no response.
At this point, I feel like I have to keep pushing just to get a response from him. I am honestly frustrated and have lost confidence and respect for this company. My main concern now is no longer having the work completed this summer. I originally wanted to enjoy my backyard during the summer, but we are already in mid-August, and I don’t feel comfortable continuing with a contractor who has been communicating this poorly.
At this point, all I want is my deposit back.
What should I do in this situation? Is it realistic to request a full refund of my deposit and cancel the contract? If so, what would be the best way to proceed?