If a contractor refuses to perform or complete a job or if an owner refuses to pay for completed or partial jobs, this is considered a/an_______________

A situation where a contractor refuses to perform or complete a job, or an owner refuses to pay for completed or partial work, pertains to a significant violation of contract terms. This is properly identified as a material breach.

A material breach refers to a failure to meet a substantial part of the contract that affects the outcome of the agreement, which can result in significant consequences, such as the right to sue for damages or seek remediation. In this context, the refusal to complete work or to pay for services rendered represents a significant deviation from the contractual obligations and expectations.

On the other hand, an immaterial breach pertains to a minor violation that does not significantly harm the contract's overall integrity or purpose. Therefore, it does not carry the same weight of consequence as a material breach. Stated damages refers to specific monetary amounts outlined in a contract that one party agrees to pay if a breach occurs, while indemnification is a legal principle where one party agrees to compensate another for certain damages or losses. These terms do not capture the essence of the situation described in the question. Thus, the appropriate identification of the scenario presented is a material breach.