Short answer: Stabilize the property first, then document, then pursue licensing, contract, and insurance remedies in parallel.
Immediate steps
- Stabilize: tarp, secure, mitigate further damage
- Written notice to the contractor demanding return or release
- Document the state at walk-off (photos, invoices paid, work completed)
- Notify the carrier: this affects the claim
- Lien protection: file Notice of Contest of Lien if contractor filed
Regulatory paths
- DBPR complaint (Fla. Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation)
- Licensing board complaint
- Contractor bond claim
Insurance implications
- Remaining RCV holdback may be harder to release without contractor documentation
- Consider a new licensed contractor to complete work under the same scope
- Keep scope consistent: splitting across contractors requires careful documentation