We break down a practical playbook for handling clients who refuse to pay, from front-end contracts that set expectations to exit strategies that protect cash and reputation. Clear steps, calm scripts, and legal anchors help you finish fast or walk away whole.

• defining the client engagement agreement and expected scope
• explaining a 15% cancellation fee for remaining work
• using weekly invoicing to reduce leverage and surface issues
• documenting progress with photos and job logs
• offering two paths: one-week finish or controlled demobilization
• calculating final invoices line by line
• negotiating with cancellation fees and service credits
• securing payment with a lien waiver and non-disparagement
• using arbitration for timely, binding resolution
• mindset: own mistakes, avoid blame, exit cleanly

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