This is one of those instances where I wish we could rate customers/consumers, so contractors would know not to work for them. The individuals that contracted us for this job are not honest, wanted to be the general contractors, they pre-mediated things in order to get more for their money unjustly. They did not even know what they wanted from the very beginning. First, we modified the proposal about twice with different sizes for decks. They drew all the dimensions for 2 decks, and we priced everything accordingly, for permit cost, materials, disposal and demolition costs, and labor. The work consisted on removing two existing decks, replacing them with two new decks, installing 2 doors, and reframing and installing a window. We applied for the permits, and the township had to survey their lot, to ensure that the structure they wanted to build was not above the authorized percentage for their lot (the deck size they wanted was too large). All the drawings needed to be re-done, and the contract was amended considerably for the difference in size, reducing the project costs as well. From that point on, we offered them the option to return their deposit, and for them to find another contractor if they wanted, or for us to finish the project. We obtained all permits for this job, and the client is incorrectly making false accusations. First, this client should have hired a worker, and been the general contractor for this project. The land inspector was out of office for a week and the town inspector was out of office for days, and they still called and called. These clients were so audacious that they obtained the contact for my workers, and called them directly without speaking to me first, trying to make arrangements on when they would come and what they would do. At last, they did not want to pay the final invoice. They said they wanted to deduct the cost for staining the two wooden doors (that were bare doors and not stained from the manufacturer), and paint the wall where the window was installed. Nowhere on the proposals, contracts, or email communications does it say we would provide any painting services at all. A month before, we had provided them with a proposal for the interior painting of their home, but they hired a different contractor. Price: I am not sure how we were hired because our price was much lower than other contractor’s (as they mentioned in their review), and yet got an F for price. I am sure that our price was considerably lower than others for the carpentry work, and materials to be used was discussed and agreed with owners beforehand. From beginning of all communications, written proposals, and contracts, there was no painting work to be provided by us, only carpentry, yet, this client deducted what she paid to paint a wall and to stain a door from the final invoice amount. Also, we agreed to use Veranda building materials or similar, and then, midway upon completion, the clients said they wanted Aztek from the very beginning- Aztek costs almost as twice as the materials that were agreed beforehand! We said that they could pay for the different between these materials, because it was not agreed and we would use Veranda. Quality : Our work was completed to full building standards and code, and we did not deliver the job until everything that was agreed with the client was delivered. The clients mentioned they were satisfied with their work, just disappointed because of timing, and that it was not the size they originally planned on- there is nothing we can do if the client wanted to upgrade the materials, but not pay for the difference. Responsiveness: We met the clients about 4 times prior to signing a contract, went over all questions in person and via email, and had everything agreed on prior to the start of the job. Unfortunately, these clients were not honest, and after we realized that they were demanding things unfairly(such as different quality materials than agreed, and painting doors and walls which we never even provided a proposal for), we wanted to keep all communications written, via email format for future reference. Punctuality : We were always on the job site as agreed. Unfortunately, we got a lot of rain for the month of late September and October, creating on a delay. Also, because of the timing it took for us to obtain a permit (per town hall and plan revisions), we could not work until the permit was acquired. Professionalism : We were professional, honest, and try all throughout this process. Unfortunately, the township did not approve the client’s original plan, and the client took this on us, which is completely not our fault. Our reviews and client referrals speak for themselves. To potential clients: I am sure that from the first contact you have with us, you will feel comfortable with what we deliver, and we will not deliver something that first, WE are not pleased with. We have very high standards of quality and service. Our phone calls, proposals, and contracts are clear and detailed from the very beginning, and if it does not fit your needs (such as including painting in a carpentry project), we will be glad to revise everything to ensure, both verbally and in writing, that we are on the same page. In this case, unfortunately the clients wanted something that the township did not permit. This resulted in a 3-week delay (between surveying the land and amending drawings and permits), and this was something out of our control. Also, this client did not want us to lead the project, and wanted to obtain services, such as painting and an upgrade of material type, for “free”. We abide by our vision of ensuring that clients trust us to the fullest, but we also need clients to ensure they are honest and do not take advantage of situations as such.