Flashcards Studio

A homeowner hired a contractor to renovate a historic kitchen for $95,000. The written contract stated, "Final payment is due only after the architect issues a certificate that the work complies with the plans." The contractor substantially completed the renovation, but installed cabinet handles that were the wrong finish and could be replaced for $700. The homeowner liked the kitchen and moved in, but told the architect not to inspect because the homeowner wanted leverage to negotiate a discount. The architect therefore never issued a certificate.
Two weeks later, the homeowner emailed the contractor: "The certificate requirement is not a problem; just replace the handles and I will pay." The contractor ordered the correct handles. Before they arrived, the homeowner changed position and refused to pay anything because no certificate had issued.
Analyze whether the homeowner may refuse final payment based on the certificate condition and the cabinet-handle defect.