Pool Contractor Abandoned My Project - Half-Dug Hole in Backyard (2025)

I am absolutely devastated and don't know what to do. We hired a pool contractor in September to build an in-ground pool. We've paid $45,000 so far - that's about 60% of the total $75,000 contract.

The crew came out, demolished part of our patio, dug a massive hole in the backyard, and then... just stopped showing up. That was 6 weeks ago. I have a 12-foot deep hole in my yard that's now filling with rainwater. It's a safety hazard - I have kids.

What's happened so far:

• Contractor stopped answering calls around Thanksgiving
• Texts go through but no response
• Went to their office - it's closed, no sign on the door
• Their website is still up but phone just rings
• We found out 2 other neighbors are in the same situation

We're looking at a half-dug hole, $45K gone, and winter coming. My wife is in tears. We saved for 3 years for this pool and now we might lose everything. I don't even know if we can afford to have someone else finish it.

What are our options? Can we recover any money? Do we sue? File a police report? I'm completely lost here.

Ok so following up with some important legal steps for properly terminating teh contract and protecting your rights:

Formal Contract Termination:

Even though the contractor has abandoned the project, you should formally terminate the contract in writing. This protects you legally and is often required before you can hire another contractor without liability. Send a certified letter stating:

1. The contractor has materially breached the agreement by abandoning work
2. You are terminating the contract effective immediately
3. You demand return of funds paid for work not completed
4. You reserve all legal rights including bond claims and litigation

There's a comprehensive set of demand letters for various pool and spa contractor issues at Pool & Spa Contractor Dispute Letters that covers abandonment or whatever, incomplete work, and refund demands.

Document everything:

• Photograph the current state of the project with timestamps
• Get written assessments from other contractors
• Save all communications (texts, emails, voicemails)
• Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or safety measures

Regarding litigation:

With $45K at stake, you're beyond small claims territory. You could potentially join with your neighbors for a group lawsuit which reduces per-person legal costs. Many construction attorneys work on contingency for clear-cut abandonment cases.

Update for anyone following this nightmare:

Took everyone's advice. Here's where we're at:

Thank you all for the guidance.