In general, a contractor cannot send a bill for work they bid on but did not get the contract for, as they have not entered into a legally binding agreement with you to perform the work. A bid or proposal is generally considered an offer, and it becomes a contract only when it is accepted by the client. Nevertheless, there may be some exceptions to this rule.  It is also possible that there were some communication or mutual understanding which would allow billing in this scenario. Contacts can be written or oral, and they do not have to be signed to be binding.   Here are some options to start with:  1. Review the bill and any supporting documentation carefully to determine if there is a valid basis for the charges. 2. Check your correspondence (emails, etc.) with the contractor to see if you contractually obligated yourself 3. Discuss the bill with the contractor.  4. See the help of a lawyer. In this case we would likely start with a demand letter.  *The foregoing information is general advice only and should not be relied upon to take, or fail to take, legal action. No attorney-client relationship is formed by this information. *