You have options
As discussed below, if a contractor breaches the contract or otherwise causes you harm, there a different avenues available. Consulting with a lawyer is often useful in helping decide which option may be best in your situation.
You can report the contractor to the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP formerly DCRA)
The DLCP hears complaints from consumers about home improvement contractors. If you file a complaint, DLCP can investigate the contractor. The DLCP is empowered to take some actions against the contractor if the contractor has violated the home improvement contractor laws. DLCP's investigation will be at no cost to you the consumer. There are, however, limitations to the DLCP process, and what claims can be brought. And while the contractor can be fined or license suspended or revoked, you may receive no compensation even if the contractor is found to be at fault.
You can pursue a claim in small claims court
Small claims court has a simplified process that makes it easier for persons who are representing themselves. If you do not have a lawyer, this could be an option. With the simpliifcation, however, there are also limitations. One limitation is that the maximum value of the case can be no more than $10,000. Another limitation is that some claims, including those under DC's Consumer Protection Procedures Act, cannot be handled in the small claims court.
You can pursue a claim in DC Superior Court
Of all the options, pursuing a claim in Superior Court is arguably the most versatile. Claims under DC's Consumer Protection Procedures Act, DC's Home Improvement Contractor regulations, DC's Debt Collection Law, and many more can brought in Superior Court. Also, the discovery rules in Superior court allow you to get documents and records from the contractor, and you can even question the contractor or its employees under oath. Moreover, there is no cap on the damages that you can recover. All of this, however, means that the process in Superior Court is more complicated than filing a complaint with the DLCP, or small claims court. If proceeding in Superior Court, it is advisable to engage a lawyer to assist you. Importantly, some types of claims, such as those under the Consumer Protection Procedures Act, and the Debt Collection Law allows you to win attorney's fees as part of the judgment if your case is successful. Moreover, violations of the home improvement law are also violations of DC's Consumer Protection Procedures Act with a minimum recovery of $1500 for each succesful showing of a violation (in addition to attorney fees).
You can have a lawyer send a demand letter to the contractor
Unfortunately, some contractors won't take your threats to action seriously. A letter from a lawyer can often help. A good letter, making a good case for why you are right, and what the legal consequences could be, can often remove the need for further action, with the contractor then willing to settle the case in a reasonable fashion. This would often be a good result, saving time and money.
Other Posts
Options
What you can do if contractor breaches contract
If a contractor breaches the contract or otherwise causes you harm, there a different avenues available ... Read more
Home improvement rights
Rights under DC's home improvement law
Home improvement contractors must be licensed unless either, the project cost is less than $300 ... Read more