Post Hurricane Harvey Contractor Problems

[CSusan]

It's been over a year since Hurricane Harvey roared through southeast Texas dumping >51" rain over several days. We are still not able to return home yet since our house is basically gutted, and the contractor is now moving on. We have a contract and have paid him $250,000 so far. Although work was progressing at a snail's pace, his subcontractors were working.

The contractor was highly recommended and there have been no red flags until 6 weeks ago when they stopped returning calls. Our personal belongings are stored in his warehouse but we don't have access to the warehouse. I finally heard back from the contractor because he wanted the remaining 5% of the final balance although our house is less than 50% completed.

We have been on a roller coaster ride this past year, and our anxiety levels are constantly elevated. We started legal proceedings against the contractor and hope this will bring a satisfactory resolution. It will be a slow process.

We have been living at a friend's house but now must find other living arrangements because she is selling her house.

We are experiencing post traumatic stress syndrome and have health related stress issues. Only people who have gone through a similar traumatic experience can relate to what we are going through.

I'm posting this message because some peoople impacted by Hurricane Florence might be going through these challenges as well. There are people who will take advantage of others when they are at their most vulnerable stage.

I'm grateful for all the love, support, and kindness shown to us during this past year by friends and strangers. It reInforces my belief that most people are good.