Programmer - a creative craft, not a profession.
The same i can say about any IT developer (designer, web, application, etc.)
So, when you do deal with someone, try first of all tell maximum details as you can.
Wait deal_time * 3 for results.
As for me, your topic title is not correct. Shit happened man, just try to talk with him and try to understand his situation or request for money back if you can't to wait.