11/20/2010 7:22 PM (PST)

I got stamp concrete in driveway and plain concrete in the back yard by a licensed contractor for $23K. The stamping was not done as specified and the repairs done at different times were done in different color shades. The backyard concrete joints were not cut as specification requires which created almost 50 cracks. Filed a complaint with CSLB and they estimated $2,400 for repair of driveway and $8,400 to replace concrete in backyard as required. The case went into AMCC arbitration where arbitrator awarded $2,400 to fix driveway and $200 to do acid wash to remove stains. $0 was awarded for cracks. I cannot believe that arbitrator asked contractor what will be the cost to acid wash 3500 sqft? Arbitrator should have got the cost from a neutral contractor or specialist. Does anybody think that any contractor will even come and stand in backyard for $200? Forget about washing 3500sqft. The contractor agreed that he did not make cuts at every 8 to 10 feet as I would not liked it and he would not be able to undo. Also it would have costed him more. Even after this statement by contractor, arbitrator awarded $0 for 50 cracks. The contractor came with a lawyer, specialist(x-employee of CSLB) and his foreman which would have impressed arbitrator. I was on my own. We normal people go to these arbitration not even once a lifetime. This contractor may be going every quarter. Professional? Now I have received a mail from lawyer stating whether $1,300 is acceptable by us for now and the contractor need until 12/31/10 to pay the bal. Is there any other game they are trying to play by sending this mail? Not the check. I was under impression that contractor will have to come and fix the problem. Do I have to live rest of my life cursing myself whenever I walk in front or back or my house for hiring a contractor who did not had good intention? What are my options? Is there anyone who can help? Do we normal people have to live with this kind of system? Hope no one else has to go through this.
Thanks a lot..... for your time.