Verbal contracts hold water in small claims court.

It would be your word against his however I bet the judge would tend to side with you. Why would you do 27 hours of work for somebody, and why would he let you do it, if there was never an agreement?

I'm trying the Employment Standards system at the moment http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/self-help/start.htm

The other things I've done I did anonymously so I wont repeat them here.

As others have already mentioned Small Claims Court probably wouldn't be worth it because of their fees for such a small amount.

I agree small claims likely won't work. If he's that kind of person he's been sued before and likely knows the system. Work with the labour board and I'd be calling Revenue Canada. As well I'd be contacting the owners of the properties you worked on as they have a responsibility to make sure the subcontractors are paid. (at least limited responsibility) They will pressure him. Basically do every thing you can to make his life a living hell. I'd start showing up at his house and asking his wife for the money too. If you know the street it can't be that hard to find which house. Do a search on Canada411. Good luck. If you don't get your money at least you'll make him pay in other ways.

Chances are that he wasn't paying into unemployment or compensation for you and will most likely do the same with the next person he rips off.

Maybe let these two departments know as well.