Roofer quote came up short and is asking for more money

[Cito Torres]

I hired a roofer who does side jobs (we used before) to install new roof on large garage 1500sqft and two small rental garages 500sqft each total 2500sqft.  He quoted "For the whole project $16800 for all new everything including waste fees." sent by text message.  I provided the roof measurements and he calculate the amount of material needed, he admitted, without inspecting the roofs. Large garage had two layers which was unexpected. His helper did not show up so I (home owner) offered to help with the tear off and spent about 17 hours working.  Roofer realized he only had enough material for large garage and one small garage.  I paid, $9850 as deposit for material.  He finished two of the three garages and did not start 3rd small garage because he ran out of material had 133sqft left over but needed 500sqft of material.  Large garage is 60% of the project and each small garage 20% each. To be fair I feel I should deduct 20% of the $16800 ($3360 for 500sqft garage) and pay $13400 and maybe deduct my labor helping which he offered $450.  Technically his quote of $16800 as mentioned is a binding contract/agreement for 3 roofs we discussed and legally feel he is obligated to complete the work or I reduce his quote by 20% as mentioned and find someone else to complete the job?  What are my options? to require him to finish per his quote or pay for work done minus one garage? Thank you for reading and any advice.

[Alan F.]

In CA an unlicensed handyman can only do $1000 (labor & materials)

Only a licensed c39 contractor can do roofing and must carry workers comp insurance on himself and employees. Must have liability insurance and a bond. All roofing replacements require a permit.

You may want to work it out with him.