05/01/2026
Some jobs come with lessons attached and this lesson is useful for other contractors.
This custom shower was completed about 1 year ago. Large format wall tile, marble herringbone pan tile, built in bench, custom framed multi tiered niche, shave station and finished w/ brushed gold Schluter. The craftsmanship speaks for itself.
What the photo doesn't show is the fight that followed. After delivering work like this, the Homeowner refused to pay. No dispute over quality, simply didn't care to pay the bill.
What protected us:
This particular project was a combination of our work and Fair Trades Home Maintenance & Inspection. We worked together to ensure a mechanic's lien was filed on the property. When a contractor files a lien, the lien becomes attached to the property and must be satisfied prior to the sale of the home. We just got paid in full on an invoice that was nearly 300 days past due.
Three things any contractor needs to understand:
Collect a deposit prior to beginning work. It qualifies the client, protects materials costs and establishes a commitment from both parties.
Know your lien rights and use them. A mechanic's lien is a powerful tool.
Always ensure a contract that clearly spells out work scope / payment terms is used and signed by both parties, regardless if they are considered friends or family.
We do beautiful work and we know how to protect it.
Custom Shower Installation - Artisan Tile Creations, Inc.
