Kempner, Texas business receives overdue payment for completed work [Video]

KEMPNER, Texas — A Central Texas contracting couple has finally received payment for work completed two years ago, spotlighting how construction disputes can devastate small family businesses.

Jennifer and Ronny Muse, owners of Muse Enterprises, Inc., won their legal battle this month when their client paid $52,000, covering the original $32,000 owed for two completed metal buildings and $20,000 in attorney fees.

“Being a small business caused substantial hardship,” Jennifer Muse said. “We had to hire an attorney, pay expenses and wait two years to be paid for completed work.”

The Muses represent a different side of contractor disputes that are rarely highlighted. While stories often focus on homeowners left with unfinished projects, contractors can face similar challenges when customers refuse payment.

“Many contractors just have to eat it,” Ronny Muse explained. “We’re here to …