Project Rescue
Developer
Stalled project? Developer disappeared? App broken in production? I specialize in parachuting into messy React and Next.js codebases and delivering the working product you were promised.
TL;DR: Byron Johnson rescues stalled, abandoned, and poorly-built web projects. First step: a full codebase audit with a documented remediation plan and upfront quote. Typical rescue engagements run $600–$3,000 depending on scope. Available at $60/hr with full code ownership. Read the rescue guide.
Do You Need a Project Rescue?
Developer Ghosted You
The freelancer or agency stopped responding mid-project. You have code but no one to finish it.
App Won't Launch
Builds fail, features are half-implemented, or the app crashes in production.
Unmaintainable Codebase
Spaghetti architecture, no documentation, outdated dependencies, or security red flags.
The Rescue Process
Codebase Audit
Full review of what exists, what is broken, and what is salvageable. Documented findings in plain language.
Remediation Plan
Prioritized fix list: must-fix blockers, should-fix improvements, and optional enhancements — with upfront quote.
Rescue & Stabilize
Fix bugs, restore builds, remove dead code, and get the application into a working, deployable state.
Document & Handoff
Architecture documentation, deployment instructions, and a codebase you can maintain or extend with any developer.
✗ Build failing: 47 TypeScript errors✗ Missing env vars in production⚠ 12 outdated deps with CVEs ✓ Build passing✓ Deployed to production✓ Documentation completeWhat I Look For in a Rescue Audit
- Broken or failing production builds
- Console errors and unhandled exceptions
- Missing or incorrect environment configuration
- Hardcoded secrets or credentials in source code
- Outdated dependencies with known vulnerabilities
- No deployment pipeline or broken CI/CD
- Spaghetti component architecture with no clear patterns
- Missing error boundaries, loading states, or fallbacks
Project Rescue Questions
My developer ghosted me — can you finish my project?
Yes. Developer ghosting is one of the most common rescue scenarios. Byron conducts a codebase audit in the first session, documents what exists and what is broken, and provides an upfront quote to complete the remaining work. Most ghosted-project rescues take 1–3 weeks depending on how much was left unfinished.
How much does project rescue cost?
Byron charges $60/hr with a full upfront quote before work begins. A typical rescue audit takes 2–4 hours ($120–$240). Full rescue engagements range from $600 for simple fixes to $3,000+ for complex codebase overhauls. You know the exact cost before any work starts — no surprises.
What tech stacks can you rescue?
Byron specializes in React, Next.js, and modern JavaScript applications. He can also work with Vue, vanilla JavaScript SPAs, and Node.js backends. He does not rescue WordPress, PHP, Ruby, or mobile native apps. If your stack is JavaScript-based, there is a strong chance he can help.
Will I own the code after the rescue?
Yes. Full code ownership is included in every engagement. You receive the complete codebase, documentation, and deployment instructions. Nothing is licensed or retained — the code is yours to maintain, extend, or hand off to any developer.