A F CONTRACTING

Overall, we are very disappointed that James did not complete the written and partial verbal contract of this large construction job, and that he has ceased to return our multiple calls about why he didn't finish the job/work. Initially, according to contract, James and crew tore down our old 30 yr redwood deck and stairs, and replaced these with what was supposed to be seasoned redwood boards. James started a bit later than initially expected due to delays with other jobs, but then was sporadically efficient with the time during the middle of the job, slower at times at the end, and then failed to come back to complete the job. As agreed in the contract, we paid a first monetary installment to start the job and obtain supplies (as agreed and dated), a second installment upon completion of a substantial amount of work (as agreed and dated), and a $4,000 amount of the final payment (per James request) to obtain the remaining supplies, but before full completion of the project (the redwood flooring, an extension between the stairs/deck and entrance to the house). We had had a good working relationship during this project, and with a previous hot tub deck project (several years prior to this job), therefore, we had no reason to doubt his integrity and honor with follow-through. Although it is not recommended nor customary to pay the last payment prior to completion, we believed in him and his word that he would return to finish the job - this did not happen. And, he never answered our repeated taped phone messages over a six-week period, asking about what happened and when would he be coming to finish his work. It is also important to note that initially he worked with his crew, but then in the bulk of the building of the deck, delegated his work to one main worker, which we believe subsequently led to a constructed deck stair design error. In fairness, this error was corrected with Jame's direction, but he seemed unhappy about the issue. All of the items (ie planters, large fountain, and flower pots were to be returned onto the new deck upon completion of the deck), but this did not happen! Also, after 6-9 mos of weathering, many of the boards are cracking, especially on the steps and railing, lending concern about safety for those walking up and down the stairs. This premature cracking did not happen to the redwood boards that had been replaced until they were very weathered (25+ years), so this condition has created some concern. We feel violated and taken advantage of, and we have been left with an unfinished project that requires additional funds, and with a deck of questionable stability and craftmanship. Subsequently, we would NOT recommend his services to others.

My water heater started leaking so I called A F Contracting for replacement. They got a 50 gallon gas water heater from Sears and brought it to my home. They then removed the bad one and put the new one in its place. They made it happen quite quickly and we had hot water once again.

Jamie was friendly and quickly described some alternatives to improve what we wanted done. He and his crew finished the work promptly and did an excellent job of building a wooden deck and several exposed aggregrate walkways for us. I'm glad we incorporated his ideas they made the large deck look very good....what finish work ;o) Greg Mann