Client Failed to Pay for House Renderings

[mikebonellisr]

My question involves a consumer law issue in the State of:westchester co. N.Y.
I was called to the clients office to meet with the agent and the builder about doing 2 renderings of proposed homes that they intended to build.We met at Sothebys real estate office to show my samples and review the job.I drew up some rough sketches (with changes) and delivered the full color,11"x 14,full color renderings to them in early January.My original price was $1,300.After discussion,I dropped the price to $1000.At first I was told that the selling agent was trying to get Sothby's and the builder to split the cost.then was told that they had a new business manager and asked me not to get in touch with thier bookeeping.I keep getting answers that it would be comming "soon".The job was delivered on Jan.12 and since then I feel that I've getting the runaround.Last week I told the agent That i would bring the price down to $750 (cash) if she paid by friday.She has stopped answering my emails and phone calls.What is my next step?

[jk]

I would suggest sending a demand letter to whomever is your client and not worry about all the other people involved. I am not sure, from your post, who you were actually contracted to but that is who you need to seek money from.

If they will not pay as agreed, you have few other options than to sue.

[abj579]

Did you draft a design retainer agreement with this client? Does this client possess the drawings in question? I can only assume that your agreement is between yourself and the builder based on the little information you provided here. At this point, because you kept lowering the cost, if you wish to recover any outstanding debts, the most you can ask for is the $750 plus any damages you want to claim for.

My advice to you is to always draft up a design retainer agreement before proceeding and never to keep dropping your asking cost just because you're not getting paid. Always stick to the agreed amount, if in fact the person or persons involved agreed to it in the first place.