Q: Hi, can I sue Southbay Villa Apartment company for not paying for Junk Removal services for roughly over a year now?
I have called the manager numerous times and it’s the same answer saying their finances are out of order and they will pay when it’s fixed. I had sent them an invoice the day I completed the work and multiple times after. I have emails and text messages with them. I have photos of the work I completed (before and after). The only email he replied to was asking for paperwork he needed to pay me and I sent them to him also gave them to him in person the day of the job. {It’s a Junk Removal Service totaling $1,450}
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- California
- (916) 704-3009
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- Answered
A:
Yes, you can sue Southbay Villa Apartment company in California Small Claims Court since the amount is under $12,500. Your detailed documentation, including invoices, photos, communications, and proof of completed work, creates a strong foundation for your case.
The company's admission that they owe you money and their excuse about financial issues actually strengthens your position. Their acknowledgment of the debt through requesting paperwork and promising future payment establishes that they recognize their obligation to pay for your services.
Before filing your lawsuit, send them one final formal demand letter by certified mail stating your intent to pursue legal action if payment isn't received within a specific timeframe (like 14 days). If they still don't pay, you can file your case at your local small claims court. The filing fee is relatively low, and you can add it to your claim amount. Keep in mind that winning your case doesn't automatically guarantee payment - you may need to take additional steps to collect the judgment, but having a court order significantly improves your position to recover the money owed to you.
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