Harry Gross: He has their money, hasn't done the work

Dear Harry:

I got myself into a handshake agreement with a window contractor. He was to install 12 double-hung windows in our home for $3,800. Payment was to be for $2,500 up front for him to purchase materials with the remaining $1,300 when the job was completed. He gave me a handwritten agreement which we both signed and dated Oct. 4, 2010. He never started the job and I have not seen him since October. He came highly recommended by one of my wife's co-workers, who has tried many times to get this guy to do the work or refund our money, all to no avail. The contractor will occasionally call to tell us that he's still working on getting the windows, but these are all empty promises. I only have limited information on him, including his cell number and his name and that he lives in New Jersey. I live in Philadelphia. My wife's co-worker knows more about this guy, but won't give us the information. Help!

What Harry says: October is more than half a year away. It's time to throw some fear into this thief. Contact him and tell him that you want your $2,500 in cash (no checks!) within the next 48 hours or you will swear out a warrant for his arrest. Also tell that co-worker that he could get into trouble for not revealing the information he has on the thief's whereabouts. That should get some action. If you get enough information on the thief from his recommender, swear out that warrant. If not, you'll need a lawyer to put his toes to the fire. Remember, dear readers, the rule is never give a contractor money up front, and never deal with a contractor until you've seen his work. By the way, that written memo you sent me is a written contract, not a handshake agreement.

Write Harry Gross c/o the Daily News, 400 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19130. Harry urges all his readers to give blood - contact the American Red Cross at 800-Red Cross.