While I’ve probably heard 10+ dumb excuses from home builders, while working as a subcontractor. Here is the top 10 list and I hope you have fun reading it, because I had fun writing it.

1. I will pay you tomorrow, you can count on it. As a contractor who has worked for many general contractors, you can almost count on never getting paid on time.

2. I never signed that change order. This one isn’t much fun, especially if it’s a big change order.

3. I don’t have enough money in my bank account to pay you. This is usually followed by more excuses like, I’m waiting for the landlord to pay me or his partner spent his money.

4. Let’s talk about this tomorrow, when I feel better. This usually means they need more time to think, try to get them to talk about it today.

5. That’s too much money, you’ll have to lower your offer price if you want the job. This is pretty standard conversation for most general contractors, no matter how much you charge them, they will always try to get you to cut your prices.

6. I thought you were going to tidy up the windows. If you are going to install the windows, make sure you know who is ordering them. This could also create other problems with concrete, wood, and roofing materials.

7. I don’t have enough money to pay for lunch. Don’t get caught by this scam. If the general contractor invites you to lunch, leave your wallet in his truck. You might end up doing a few dishes, but it will teach the contractor a valuable lesson.

8. I never said that, did I? This is the ultimate general contractor excuse and if it’s used more than once, you might consider purchasing a digital recording device.

9. I will not be able to be here tomorrow. This will generally be used around payday. If you’re supposed to be paid and your contractor uses this excuse, tell him you won’t be there tomorrow either. This usually gets your creative juices flowing.

10. Last but not least, I’m not responsible for it, you are. That’s why we have contracts and you better read your contract, because a smart general contractor, who isn’t interested in using new again, could make your life miserable.

A little humor and a little pain, that’s how I feel in the construction business most of the time.