Absolute Tile David Groomas

Mr. Groomas began work on 5/26/2010 after receiving a $3000 advance, part of which was to buy a tile saw he required to do this job. I had to terminate him on July 8, 2010 for non-performance. It all that time he laid less than 100 sq ft of tile. On three occasions I sat down with him and told him his performance was unsatisfactory and he needed to show up for work. Each time he promised he would he back the next day and work non-stop until he was done. He did not follow through on his promises. After termination David Groomas starting making death threats to my family and me. We had to file criminal complaints against him. We were told he has at least two felony convictions and during one of his phone threats he told me that he had numerous felonies. I strongly recommend that you do not use this man.

David did not provide a business address at time of contract. He required an up front payment of approx. 40% with another 30% in three weeks with the final payment at completion of the project. Payments were made as scheduled with original completion date estimated at 10-12 weeks. While bad weather did hamper some of the work, in terms of snow and power outages, work slowed severely after second payment necessitating an updated completion date of April 15 with a 1 week grace period. He never contacted me as to any additional delays and when I travelled from my principle residence in Wyoming, the work was not close to completion. My observation of his work while in Asheville was enlightening to say the least. When he showed up for the job he spent much more time walking around than working and when finally little more was done 1 week after the deadline, and he refused to agree to another week to get the work done, I had to fire him. When he left, the only room completed was a small powder room. Neither of the two showers had been prepped or tiled, nor much of the decorative tilework in the bathrooms. The hardwood flooring was not completed, with about half of the stairs not done, and no staining or polyurethane applied to the 1800 sq. ft. of flooring. Slate work in front of the fireplace was not completed. Additionally, no grouting or finishing of the countertop tile had been done. The cooktop had not been installed on the kitchen countertop. He did manage to finish the kitchen floor tiling. I estimate that perhaps 60-70% of the work was completed. He refused to refund any of the already paid labor contributions. I personally would not in any way recommend his services and suggest extensive background check and multiple references checked if utilized. I would strongly suggest not paying him until the work is completed. He works primarily with his brother, occasionally hiring additional help when he severely falls behind.