A contractor going quiet is stressful, especially if you've paid a deposit or work is half done. Often there's an ordinary reason (another job ran long, a supplier is late, someone is sick), but you need a clear record either way. The steps below are about getting an answer and keeping your options open.
Before you reach out again, note: what was agreed (quote, start date, scope), what's been paid, what work is done, and the date and method of your last contact. Photos of the current state of the job are worth taking now.
Calls are fine, but follow each one with a short text or email that states what was said. If you haven't heard back, send a polite written message: the date you last spoke, what you were expecting, and a simple question with a reasonable date to reply by.
If there's still no answer, a second written message that names a specific date to respond or confirm a new schedule is reasonable. Keep it factual and calm. You may need to show it to someone later.
Re-read your contract or quote for anything about schedules, deposits, or cancellation. Some states and cities have rules about contractor deposits or licensing; your state's contractor licensing board website is a good place to look. This page is not legal advice.
If the contractor won't finish or return a deposit, the guides on getting money back from a contractor cover the next steps.
Copy it, fill in the brackets, and send or print it.
Hi [Name], Following up on the [project] at [address]. We last spoke on [date], when you said [what was planned]. I've paid [amount] so far, and [work done] is complete. Could you confirm the schedule for the remaining work by [date]? Thanks, [Your name] [Phone]
Wherewithal is an organizational tool only. Not legal advice. Consider consulting a licensed attorney.