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I recently had a referral through someone I trust, so I talked to the client and started the background work to get an estimate. Called and gave him a quote, he said go ahead. So I did, and got it almost finished in a couple of days.
Then he called and said he changed his mind and did not want to pursue the project after all, that he would pay me for whatever portion I had completed. Well, it was almost done, so I told him the price (about 75% of the original quote). He had a fit. Could not imagine how I had got so far so fast. Essentially calling me a liar. He said, send the invoice and what I had complete to that point. I did, and that's the last I've heard of him.
Lesson -- give out the quote, then get a contract with a deposit before starting the work.
As for slow pays -- 18% interest on past-30. On the original contract of course.
Can you allow them to make payments? Maybe a way to at least get the money eventually, with interest.
In this particular case for me, I'll take the lesson and spread the word. The guy who referred him is well connected, and I expect this "client" will hurt more in the long run than I will.
Steve
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