You paid a repairman or contractor who disappeared without completing the work? They took your deposit and vanished? This is unfortunately common but you have recourse.
Common Scenarios
- Took deposit and vanished — Never started work
- Disappeared mid-job — Left work incomplete
- Took item for repair — Never returned it
- Unreachable — Phone disconnected, no response
What to Do
- Document everything — Contract, payments, communications
- Try to locate them — Check business registry, social media
- Send formal notice — To last known address
- File police report — If it's clear fraud
- Complaint to OPC — Office de la protection du consommateur
- Small claims court — Even if they don't show up
Prevention Tips
- Never pay full amount upfront
- Verify contractor's license (RBQ for construction)
- Get everything in writing
- Check reviews and references
How Report Quebec Can Help You
- Documentation of your case
- Generate a formal notice
- Guidance to appropriate recourse