McLellan Builders Inc

I purchased my first home, in summer of 2006. While the home was new and generally fantastic because of it's location near Center City Philadelphia, it was definitely builder grade and always had that feel. After I had gotten married, I relented and threw some paint on a few walls. Still, the builder grade feel was there. My wife and I planned on some changes, to make the house our home. Along with some practical upgrades (turning a powder room with washer/dryer hook-up into a full bathroom with stacked washer/dryer hook-up), there was a splurge (roof deck), along with aesthetic improvements (remodel of full bathroom). We had entertained four contractors to put in bids. We received two back, and while McLellan Builders (Andrew McLellan) were not the cheapest, Andrew had the most professional presentation with detailed description of work to be accomplished and individual pricing points for such. The price difference was negligible, and Andrew was more than reasonable in adjusting pay schedules for our benefit. During the estimate and consultation process, he was responsive, polite, and knowledgeable, this was the first type project that my wife and I attempted. Where we had gaps in articulating what we wanted, Andrew was able to fill them in with an agreeable solution. As such throughout the project, he'd offer cosmetic suggestions that were usually on point for what we wanted, and offered feedback when solicited on selections we chose. For the actual project, Andrew in the end completed- two gutted and redone bathrooms, installing a shower in one; a top roof-deck, with access gained from a roof-patio (it is a 2.5 story building); new roof (previous roof did not comply with city ordinance for fire safety); hardwood floors throughout; installed stair railing and balusters where there had been a half-wall at entrance; installed a large hallway closet; redid the master bed-room to include large wall and shoe closets; paint for the entire house (save untouched kitchen). The hardwood floors and stair railing were actually a separate job that we had asked him to provide an estimate as he was finishing up the roof deck. Having already received quotes in the past, his price is about what we expected and we agreed to do that. So he actually did two jobs for us in consecutive order. Some time had opened up where he wouldn't have to leave right away and could accomplish it all. Just another example of his flexibility and customer service. There are surprises in any project. Andrew always kept an active line of communication open (phone, text, email), alerting me of anything that might cause a change in plans. He also always gave me options for how to proceed, with economy, craftsmanship and time as different factors. Some things were out of his control, the roofs were not expected to be replaced, but one was done for structural reasons, the other due to city planner demands. But all were solved with minimal effort on our part, Andrew did the lion's share of the work. When we had gotten the wrong faucets for a bathroom vanity, Andrew drove to three different stores to find a suitable replacement while we were at work and sent text-photos to find an alternative. This was so the plumber would not have to come back out and charge us extra, but finish the job while he was there. And, as a one-off, Andrew uses great people when he isn't doing the work himself. As a general contractor, Andrew sometimes performs the work himself, or he'll oversee a few different crews, pending on how many moving pieces. Everyone Andrew brought to our home was professional, courteous, clean and respectful. On top of that, they are attentive and excellent craftsmen. Ultimately, working with Andrew was a pleasure. Any small concerns we've had, even after he's finished, he's ready to help fix issues so we have the house we want. I highly recommend him and his team. When/if the kitchen will receive some attention, McLellan builders will be the first call made to inquire about the work. Cheers, a very satisfied and happy customer