HERNANDEZ PAINTER DECORATOR, INC.

They did an amazing job with a very difficult project that required phasing to stop work to bring in DC government to assess options available to deal with a historic tree on our property. They also addressed problems in original building and provided flexible options to resolve. Although the project ended up being more than estimated due to these issues, the proposed solutions ended up creating unexpected benefits in drainage away from our property. We have gotten so many compliments on the work, and have used them several times for other projects for our condo association.

This painting cycle our HOA board let all owners choose their own painter, so the Hernandez firm did not get the job for the whole community, as in the two previous cycles. Because the performance during their first and second projects (prior years painting) was very good in quality and professionalism, we elected to use them this cycle. Regrettably it turned out to be a bad decision. He consistently failed to return calls trying to set up an appointment for the estimate. His workmen were unfriendly, and despite his assurances by Mr. Hernandez that they spoke English, they did not. Work was sloppy. Preparation specified in the contract was not performed consistently. For example the garage vehicular door was painted three times and is still wrong. First time they painted it in a closed position. Second time they painted it in a partially open position. Third time the painters did not allow the edges on opposing panels to dry, and failed to paint the far edges of the door. Preparation of the door was inconsistent. After each of the first two paintings I asked Mr. Hernandez to come out to examine the error and instruct (in Spanish) his painter on what to do. He did come out, but the problems were never resolved. Poor preparation of the bay windows in the front of the house resulted in peeling before the end of the first year after painting. After months of calls to complain that the work was not done, I had heard nothing. Their final bill was presented more than three months after they left the jobsite. They still did not complete the work, so we terminated the contract for non-performance and cause.

Mr. Hernandez and crew made a painful situation relatively pain-free. We had entire ceilings in kitchen and basement, recreation room demolished as well as flooring in large areas. All of these areas needed to be replaced including much drywall, electrical and too much to elaborate. He was very compassionate in trying to keep our home livable during the construction. He was very responsive and worked with us on many issues. I have already recommended his company to friends.

unknown

Prior review was for the wrong company. Apologies.

Hernandez Painter Decorator, Inc was very personable and seemingly very knowledgeable but never sent me a written estimate or returned my call.

Excellent

Both Mr. H and his men are pleasant to deal with and willingly go the extra mile. Our search for just the right granite was extensive and included Mr. Hernandez's personal attention. He gave a lot of attention to the aesthetics of the fireplace surround work, choosing woods and finishes. The wood was carefulloy arranged to take advantage of the various colors and grain patterns in the wood. When the work was finished, part of it was deconstructed and re-done to remedy an asymetry that I didn't see. I would have accepted the work as it was first done. The finished job wears so well on our eyes, unlike other work which reveal defects over time. Similarly, the appliance delivery men said that they couldn't get it through the kitchen door; Mr. H figured how to complete that maneuver.

We have used them in the past and still think highly of them. We got their name through someone else in the building. They're personal style stands out. By now I know him, you don't deal with surrogates, you deal with Wilbur. We've come to know him as much as a friend as a contractor. They do good work and do it very promptly. You get what you pay for even though it's a little high. He also has a woman in his office that passes on the word to him if I can't get a hold of him or takes care of things herself.

It went very comfortably. Mr. Hernandez personally went with us to pick our tile and fixtures and patiently waited for us to make choices. The introduction of the Moroccan doors and the need to innovate to accommodate them was testimony to his coping skills and imagination. He charged us for all of that, as he should, but there was no free lunch. Others in our building have used him happily, which is how we learned about him and felt comfortable hiring him.

They arrived on time, worked diligently and competently, cleaned up thoroughly when done, priced their work fairly, and were always polite and professional. I would highly recommend them.