pricing dispute with contractor

[samlooker]

MA
Brought a contractor to inspect the unit and he gave written estimates on each item:
item1 $x
item2 $y
item3 $z

There was no mention of minimal service charge.

Several days latter I emaild and exchanged phones with him, specifically asking him only work on item1 and 2, not on 3.

He came and done 1 and 2. And he asked me to pay double of x+y. He explained there is a minimal charge. He said that the original estimate has x+y+z greater than minimal charge and that's why no mention of it then.

I disagree, asking why on any of the subsequent communications when it is clear 1 and 2 are the only items to be done still no mention of it.

He threaten to put a lien if I do not pay the amount.

My questions:
Given I have written estimates from him, can I just pay what's in the estimate for the work performed?
If a lien is placed, what do I do to fight it? What would be the chance of wining it?

Thx

 

[Zigner]

If they were all quoted at the same time on the same form, then it was a "package deal" (IMO)

 

[LdiJ]

If they were all quoted at the same time on the same form, then it was a "package deal" (IMO)

If they were written up as one total estimate I agree. If they were written up as separate estimates, then even if they were on the same piece of paper, they are still separate estimates.

If there was going to be an additional charge for just doing 1 and 2, then the contractor should have advised the client of that, in advance.

 

[tranquility]

All the little fine print on the estimate would be good to read too.

 

[samlooker]

All the little fine print on the estimate would be good to read too.

I am the type of person that reads fine prints, but there is none on it

The amount is not of large, but just hate those greedy and lies.