If you weren't paid for completed work.

Texas has real lien rights. If you supplied labor or materials, you may be entitled to file a mechanic's lien — but there are strict deadlines (often tied to when you last worked or delivered). Don't wait to look into this.

Send a written demand letter first. A dated, specific demand letter (amount owed, invoice numbers, due date) both gives the contractor a fair chance to pay and becomes evidence if this goes further.

Small claims and Justice Court. Texas Justice Courts handle claims up to $20,000 without requiring an attorney — often the fastest path for a straightforward unpaid invoice.

Document everything before filing here. Signed purchase orders or agreements, proof of delivery/completion, and the demand letter make your complaint far harder to dismiss as a misunderstanding.