Hello,
If she has a written contract that states the terms of payment, that is what the painter is stuck with. That is a common payment setup and is normal in the industry. I would tell him that he gets nothing more until he meets with you to discuss your concerns and if he places a lien on your property, you will file a lawsuit against him for "slander of title". Slander of title is a common law tort impugning ownership of land that interferes with owner's ability to sell or borrow money on land, with resultant economic harm.
Additionally you will sue him for breach of contract and for breach of the implied warranty of workmanship. He is not entitled to any additional payment under the contract until he is halfway through and the job is of workmanlike quality.
Tell him you have contacted an attorney who has suggested you try and talk with him before you file suit and see if that gets him in a more reasonable mood.
Thanks.
Matt
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9 years experience in real estate, estate planning, and criminal law