Will this concrete ever get better?

Question

I had a landscaper install concrete in March 2020 and it he did terrible job with the yard and drainage. The yard flooded multiple times soaking the concrete just days after it was put down.

Does anyone know if these spots will ever come out? Anyone know what I can do to get this out if work is required?

Thank you.

Becky at Flipping the Flip · Answer

Did the contractor cause the yard to flood thereby damaging the concrete pour? Or did the yard flood in this area prior the contractor’s work? This is where it might get tricky. If they didn’t cause the flooding, it may difficult to pursue them. If they did cause brand new flooding in your yard where none had been before then they should redo this concrete.

Naomie Moore aka baileyanddaisey, Castaic CA · Answer

After reading the string of responses, all further communication shall be in writing, via text, email, or certified mail return receipt. You will need as proof of due diligence for the licensing board or Judge, if it goes that far. Betsy has it spot on if you want to wish to go that route. You can also file a claim with his insurance company. When you hit them in the pocketbook or go after their license, it is amazing how quickly they respond. Don't dawdle, that way you can get it repaired or rebuilt before the snow flies if you live in a colder climate. Check the "statute of limitations" in your state, county or city for timeframe in which to file a claim. Good luck!

Doreen Blake · Answer

It could be the lime coming out of the concrete which is called efflorescence which results in a “white “ look. If so; they do make an efflorescence cleaner which takes it away. If not, I guess paint or stain is the thing to do. As far as court, people are crazy now, and depending where you live, it might not be a good thing. There are so many fly by night scapers out there that you really need to investigate who you are hiring! Good luck!

Betsy · Answer

Hi Neil: In a word, no. It will not get better. My next and last call to him would be 'You have 2 weeks from today, the _____ of ___, 2020 to fix this. Time is of the essence.' If it's not fixed, then the next correspondence you get about this will be in the form of a summons. If you take him to court and the judge says it has to be removed and redone, then tell the judge that you have 'lost faith' in this contractor and want another one to do the work. Do remember those phrases. 'Time is of the essence'. and 'you have 'lost faith' in this contractor'. If the work is not done, take him to court and when you sue, ask for court costs too. However, if you don't want to do that, you can paint or stain the cement. Check these sites for instructions: