Complaint: [redacted] I am rejecting this response because: On October 1, 2013, I sent [redacted] an email with two pictures of fireplace mantels attached I requested an approximate estimate for each On that same day, [redacted] responded stating distinctly what each mantel would cost He did not say it was an estimate He gave two prices; one for $1,and one for $1, I elected for the $1,mantel and asked [redacted] when he could start I received ***’s name through [redacted] I’m still not quite sure why [redacted] gave [redacted] additional information that I was interested in a kitchen renovation because I did not request [redacted] for that job In any event, [redacted] asked if I wanted him to bring kitchen catalogs We agreed upon 10/8/for [redacted] to begin the jobAt that time when [redacted] arrived, he took measurements for the mantel He never said the price was an estimate We discussed the picture and what it entailedPart of the discussion was the marble surround, which [redacted] stated he would install the marble I had x pieces of marble that we discussed for installation [redacted] never stated a timeline for the project [redacted] said he could return and start the building on Tuesday 10/15/ On 10/12/13, I sent [redacted] an email asking if the there would be a difference for the kind of wood for the mantel if I wanted to stain it [redacted] replied that it would make a difference and if I wanted to stain the wood, I should go with maple wood We discussed coloring a little and at that time [redacted] asked if he could start the job Wednesday 10/16/instead of Tuesday, at which I said yes I confirmed I would like the maple wood and [redacted] stated the maple would be a few hundred extra and he would let me know the next day I replied that I would wait to hear from him for the extra cost because I was already over what I had planned to spend for the project [redacted] replied right back that the maple wood would cost $extra I confirmed that I wanted to go with the maple [redacted] confirmed that he would be over on Wednesday around 8/8:am to begin and asked if I was okay with an $deposit that day Since I was giving [redacted] very close to 50% down payment, I asked if he was staining the completed project and he replied yes [redacted] arrived on Wednesday, 10/16/and was not in more than an hour and had to leave because his daughter became ill He was unable to return for the week He returned one day the following week (approximately hours) Not much work was completed At that time, [redacted] suggested that there should be a shut off for the firebox We discussed various issues with not having the shut off valve and [redacted] suggested it would be better to have it done right [redacted] explained that it was something he could not install [redacted] also suggested to us that it would look good to have a TV overhead the mantel He stated that was electrical work and he could not install that I let [redacted] know that I completely understood both projects [redacted] could not handle I told [redacted] I would call someone to handle the two items [redacted] came another day to work on the project In discussions as the project was coming along, the x marble pieces that I originally had for installation seemed to require a lot of extra work and weren’t finished pieces I looked into purchasing separate whole pieces already cut out for mantel surrounds When they were unavailable at a nearby location, I was referred to a fabricating location A template was required for this application [redacted] offered to meet the gentleman for the fabrication work so he would understand what was required for the marble installation that [redacted] will handle The fabricator met with [redacted] to inform [redacted] what was required for proper installationThe installation required cement board to be installed When the fabricator asked [redacted] how he was going to install the marble, [redacted] replied he was installing it on the plywood The fabricator explained to [redacted] the marble required cement backer board and explained how he should proceed with the installation of the marble when it is delivered Since [redacted] did not look comfortable with the installation process for the marble, I asked [redacted] if he wanted the fabricator to do the marble install and [redacted] would do the prep work for the marble install [redacted] agreed to both In the meantime I was waiting for the workman for the shut off valve and electrical outlet for the TV In an email on 10/27/I informed [redacted] that I didn’t hear back from the plumber and I would keep trying [redacted] replied that it was no problem and it was better to do it right He asked that I keep him posted He also stated that since the finishing time is indefinite, he asked if it would be possible to get another $to get caught up on material and labor On 10/29/13, I replied to [redacted] regarding the workman for the shut off valve and electrical I also replied that giving [redacted] another check was fine but I asked that another check would be almost all of the amount of the project [redacted] did not respond to my question With the work that was completed, [redacted] had installed a piece of plywood above the mantel section with a few huge knots in the board They were very noticeable and we talked about the staining of that board [redacted] agreed to switch out the board This board was also part of the mantel where the workman was going to install the electrical wiring for the TV After my question regarding ***’s request for another $500, [redacted] was unable to return for a week [redacted] stopped back one day after to switch the board out so the electrical work could be completed He stated at that time that he would rather the workman not touch the wood to make any cutouts [redacted] wanted to cut the wood himself I relayed that information to the workman At some point after that, [redacted] changed his mind again and said the workman could make the cutout for the electrical work I contacted the workman and he returned to make the cutout and did his work on 11/13/ I notified [redacted] as soon as it was completed [redacted] replied that he would probably come at the end of the following week On 11/22/I received an email from [redacted] stating he was sorry he wasn’t able to make it that week and he may be able to make it back the next Wednesday but he would let me know how things are going on the Tuesday He also said, if it doesn’t work, the first week of December he should have no problem coming by (Please bear in mind that [redacted] did not receive the additional $he requested) On that Tuesday, 11/26/13, [redacted] emailed me stating he would not be able to make it the next day, which would be the Wednesday On 12/2/ [redacted] emailed me to inform that he had the Thursday open to “finish” the fireplace, and to let me know the cement board that was needed would cost an additional $ I replied to [redacted] that I wasn’t sure he would be finishing because they have to template the marble surround and he would be coming back again I was questioning the additional cost because [redacted] was originally going to do the marble install with my marble anyway I also asked [redacted] what he was allowing for the painting On 12/3/ [redacted] replied giving the breakdown for the cement board that was needed At this time, he said, he didn’t include the painting (which was contradictory from a previous email conversation) and should not be more than $additional On 12/4/13, [redacted] emailed to confirm 12/5/ at 8:am for return to our job and the $for the cement board He asked if we could make another payment of $780, leaving the balance to $ I replied that the date and time are fine, as well as the additional $ I also stated we were ok with the additional $as long as the only thing left was some small amount of molding I stated that I originally asked him on 10/14/if he was painting the fireplace or if it wasn’t included and he replied yes, he was painting it In previous conversations, [redacted] also mentioned that he knew someone who did specialty painting I told [redacted] that he mentioned that fact and I would be willing to call the painter out for an estimate to see what the difference would be for [redacted] or the painter to handle the painting I thought this was a reasonable consideration since [redacted] had stated he would paint the mantel On 12/4/I received an email from [redacted] stating he could no longer finish the job He explained how he felt he had taken a loss on the job and couldn’t continue I went back and forth with [redacted] stating he was being unreasonable after he was given a sizeable sum of money He made many excuses and we went back and forth regarding the job (I have numerous emails) After I realized it was fruitless to go back and forth with ***, I contacted [redacted] for assistance The quickly stepped in and on 12/9/13, I received an email from [redacted] apologizing for things getting out of hand Among other things, he said he would return but needed a payment of at least $ On 12/10/13, I replied and stated to [redacted] he was worried about not being paid and I’m concerned that he doesn’t want to finish the job, no one else would want to finish it and we certainly didn’t have enough material to justify the $we gave him I asked him to come back and assess the job for remaining material We would make sure he was reimbursed for the material purchased On 12/13/ [redacted] asked if Tuesday 12/17/ would work to return and I replied yes On 12/17/ [redacted] returned (without receipts) and did some work on the mantle As a good faith gesture, we gave [redacted] an additional $for his work At this point, we were at the mercy of the fabricator since we were unsure what [redacted] was going to do when he wasn’t returning On 1/21/I asked [redacted] what his availability would be to return He began telling me he was booked for 3- weeks But as soon as he could get a free day, he would come to finish I tried to be extremely patient because now [redacted] had approximately 85% of the payment for the unfinished job When I didn’t hear from [redacted] for a couple months, I contacted him again on 4/11/and asked if he would be coming anytime soon He replied yes, he was trying but was super busy and booked solid He stated that the only other work that he could do were for customers who want to pay the double labor costs to cover overtime He stated he couldn’t squeeze anything in unless it was on evenings or weekends I replied that [redacted] can give me a night or weekend and I would make myself available to him for completion He replied it would now cost an additional $to come on a Saturday I asked what Saturday He replied the earliest would be 5/3/ I replied that would be fine On 4/28/14, I emailed [redacted] to confirm he was coming He replied he had to cancel and asked if the next Saturday would work I replied yes, it was fine (which brought us to 5/10/14) On 5/9/I emailed [redacted] to confirm he was coming and [redacted] replied that he needed to reschedule for the 24th On 5/16/14, I received an email that stated “sorry I was not able to come The company was able to afford to fully fund the purchase of a well to be drilled in *** so the villages and the little children can have fresh water I should be able to make it in a week or two” After this email, I contacted [redacted] once again for some assistance I was in contact with [redacted] for the next few weeks On 6/2/I sent [redacted] an email requesting him to come back to finish the job that he started at the price we agreed upon I told him there was no need to be concerned about anything, just complete his portion of the job Various emails went back and forth with [redacted] making excuses again (I can supply emails) On 6/10/I again asked [redacted] if he would be finishing the job He replied, he would need to send out his estimator with the original drawing to get a material list as to what would be needed to finish the job He asked for my availability I replied I would make myself available whenever he needed I didn’t hear back from *** On 6/16/I emailed [redacted] again to see if someone would be coming out that week Another few emails back and forth and [redacted] finally said someone would be out 6/24/at 8AM At AM on 6/24/I emailed [redacted] to ask if someone was still coming and he replied yes, at The gentleman came out (without any original drawing, picture or plans from ***), took quite a number of measurements I didn’t hear anything for a couple days I emailed [redacted] on 6/26/and asked when the gentleman would be returning [redacted] replied that he was working up a price and should have it finished by tomorrow I did not respond because I thought it was ludicrous to think I should pay someone to finish a job that [redacted] had started, had almost all of the money for, never showed us any kind of receipts for his so-called “loss” of material, and had been leading us on ridiculously for months On 7/7/14, [redacted] emailed me to say the total to finish the fireplace was $2,which would include the painting At this point (7/8/14), I contacted the Revdex.com On 7/10/I received an email from [redacted] asking if I had availability the 3rd week of August to finish and “at what cost you would be willing to meet in the middle at?” I replied I was not meeting in the middle for additional costs I find our entire conversations outrageous [redacted] , New Creation Carpentry, gave a price for the job, requested a down payment, received the down payment and then decided not finish the job He was asked to return and after complaints from [redacted] r, he did return to be given additional payment in good faith to finish and now wants more money I gave much information in the formal complaint As you can tell from the information, this has been far from an upstanding project If you need further confirmation, please feel free to contact me Regards, [redacted]
Business Response to a Complaint
padding: 3pt; border: #f0f0f0; background-color: transparent;">
Complaint ID#:
[redacted]
Company Name:
New Creation Carpentry
Company Contact:
[redacted]
Company Phone:
[redacted]
Company Email:
[redacted]
Person Who Sent the Complaint:
[redacted]
Staff Member:
[redacted]
Response:
First, we would like to state that we are 100% willing and eager to rectify the current situation at hand. On October 1, 2013 our company received an email from the client with a request for, and I quote, "an approximate estimate" for a custom built fireplace surround. The same day we provided this "approximate estimate." Our company received a deposit in the amount of $800 on October 17, 2014, the day we started the project. The job was only going to be 3 days long. As soon as we started the job, the client called in a plumber to take care of a gas line issue which should have been handled prior to our arrival. This delayed our finishing of the project to about 3 weeks because of a part that needed to be ordered. At this point, we are about 4-5 weeks into the project when my employee and I come back to work our 2nd day. The client then decides to hire an electrician to install a cable and electrical line to house a flat screen TV. The client had asked if we could install the marble, which I, [redacted], personally said yes, but I did not give her a price for the additional work. I did not feel comfortable installing the marble since I am not a marble specialist and I communicated this very clearly to the client. When the client decided to hire a marble company to install the marble surround, she somehow assumed and stated to us that we were responsible for the cost of the marble. We spent 4 hours meeting with the marble company discussing the best way to complete the project. After this third additional contractor was hired, we told the client we could no longer finish the job under the original "approximate estimate" cost. The job had become way bigger than the original agreed upon scope of work. It wasn't until February of 2014 when we heard back from the client stating that she did not have the marble installed. Repeatedly we told the client the job had become bigger than our original agreed upon scope of work and the cost of the project would have to be discussed. We have spoken several times trying to come to an agreement which the client continually blames us for her hiring additional contractors. We, New Creation Carpentry, believe there needs to be a 3rd party introduced to bring the situation to a close. Again, we are 100% willing and eager to rectify the situation and take full responsibility for any wrong that we have done. The project was originally a 3 day job which turned into several months because of the clients own will to hire additional contractors to make additional changes to our original agreement. The additional changes to an original agreement cause for additional costs which the client assumes we are responsible for. We have all emails saved for records and are available upon request.
Sent on: 7/18/2014 1:39:32 PM
Sent by: 69.142.53.184
Complaint: [redacted]
I am rejecting this response because:
On October 1, 2013, I sent [redacted] an email with two
pictures of fireplace mantels attached.
I requested an approximate estimate for each. On that same day, [redacted] responded stating
distinctly what each mantel would cost.
He did not say it was an estimate.
He gave two prices; one for $1,100 and one for $1,650. I elected for the $1,650 mantel and asked
[redacted] when he could start. I received
[redacted]’s name through [redacted] I’m
still not quite sure why [redacted] gave [redacted] additional information that I
was interested in a kitchen renovation because I did not request [redacted] for that
job. In any event, [redacted] asked if I
wanted him to bring kitchen catalogs. We
agreed upon 10/8/13 for [redacted] to begin the job. At that time when [redacted] arrived,
he took measurements for the mantel. He
never said the price was an estimate. We
discussed the picture and what it entailed. Part of the discussion was the
marble surround, which [redacted] stated he would install the marble. I had 12 x 12 pieces of marble that we
discussed for installation. [redacted] never
stated a timeline for the project. [redacted] said he could return and start the
building on Tuesday 10/15/13. On 10/12/13,
I sent [redacted] an email asking if the there would be a difference for the kind of
wood for the mantel if I wanted to stain it.
[redacted] replied that it would make a difference and if I wanted to stain
the wood, I should go with maple wood.
We discussed coloring a little and at that time [redacted] asked if he could
start the job Wednesday 10/16/13 instead of Tuesday, at which I said yes. I confirmed I would like the maple wood and
[redacted] stated the maple would be a few hundred extra and he would let me know the
next day. I replied that I would wait to
hear from him for the extra cost because I was already over what I had planned
to spend for the project. [redacted] replied
right back that the maple wood would cost $130 extra. I confirmed that I wanted to go with the
maple. [redacted] confirmed that he would be
over on Wednesday around 8/8:30 am to begin and asked if I was okay with an
$800 deposit that day. Since I was
giving [redacted] very close to 50% down payment, I asked if he was staining the
completed project and he replied yes. [redacted]
arrived on Wednesday, 10/16/13 and was not in more than an hour and had to
leave because his daughter became ill.
He was unable to return for the week.
He returned one day the following week (approximately 4 hours). Not much work was completed. At that time, [redacted] suggested that there
should be a shut off for the firebox. We
discussed various issues with not having the shut off valve and [redacted] suggested
it would be better to have it done right.
[redacted] explained that it was something he could not install. [redacted] also suggested to us that it would look
good to have a TV overhead the mantel.
He stated that was electrical work and he could not install that. I let [redacted] know that I completely understood
both projects [redacted] could not handle. I
told [redacted] I would call someone to handle the two items.
[redacted] came another day to work on the project. In discussions as the project was coming
along, the 12 x 12 marble pieces that I originally had for installation seemed
to require a lot of extra work and weren’t finished pieces. I looked into purchasing separate whole
pieces already cut out for mantel surrounds. When they were unavailable at a nearby
location, I was referred to a fabricating location. A template was required for this
application. [redacted] offered to meet the
gentleman for the fabrication work so he would understand what was required for
the marble installation that [redacted] will handle.
The fabricator met with [redacted] to inform [redacted] what was required for proper
installation. The installation required cement board to be installed. When the fabricator asked [redacted] how he was
going to install the marble, [redacted] replied he was installing it on the plywood. The fabricator explained to [redacted] the marble
required cement backer board and explained how he should proceed with the
installation of the marble when it is delivered. Since [redacted] did not look comfortable with the
installation process for the marble, I asked [redacted] if he wanted the fabricator
to do the marble install and [redacted] would do the prep work for the marble
install. [redacted] agreed to both. In the meantime I was waiting for the workman
for the shut off valve and electrical outlet for the TV. In an email on 10/27/13 I informed [redacted] that
I didn’t hear back from the plumber and I would keep trying. [redacted] replied that it was no problem and it
was better to do it right. He asked that
I keep him posted. He also stated that
since the finishing time is indefinite, he asked if it would be possible to get
another $500 to get caught up on material and labor. On 10/29/13, I replied to [redacted] regarding the
workman for the shut off valve and electrical.
I also replied that giving [redacted] another check was fine but I asked that another
check would be almost all of the amount of the project. [redacted] did not respond to my question.
With the work that was completed, [redacted] had installed a piece
of plywood above the mantel section with a few huge knots in the board. They were very noticeable and we talked about
the staining of that board. [redacted] agreed
to switch out the board. This board was
also part of the mantel where the workman was going to install the electrical
wiring for the TV.
After my question regarding [redacted]’s request for another $500,
[redacted] was unable to return for a week.
[redacted] stopped back one day after to switch the board out so
the electrical work could be completed.
He stated at that time that he would rather the workman not touch the
wood to make any cutouts. [redacted] wanted to
cut the wood himself. I relayed that
information to the workman. At some
point after that, [redacted] changed his mind again and said the workman could make
the cutout for the electrical work. I
contacted the workman and he returned to make the cutout and did his work on
11/13/13. I notified [redacted] as soon as it
was completed. [redacted] replied that he
would probably come at the end of the following week. On 11/22/13 I received an email from [redacted]
stating he was sorry he wasn’t able to make it that week and he may be able to
make it back the next Wednesday but he would let me know how things are going
on the Tuesday. He also said, if it
doesn’t work, the first week of December he should have no problem coming
by. (Please bear in mind that [redacted] did
not receive the additional $500 he requested)
On that Tuesday, 11/26/13, [redacted] emailed me stating he would not be able
to make it the next day, which would be the Wednesday. On 12/2/13 [redacted] emailed me to inform that he
had the Thursday open to “finish” the fireplace, and to let me know the cement
board that was needed would cost an additional $100. I replied to [redacted] that I wasn’t sure he would
be finishing because they have to template the marble surround and he would be
coming back again. I was questioning the
additional cost because [redacted] was originally going to do the marble install with
my marble anyway. I also asked [redacted] what
he was allowing for the painting. On
12/3/13 [redacted] replied giving the breakdown for the cement board that was
needed. At this time, he said, he didn’t
include the painting (which was contradictory from a previous email
conversation) and should not be more than $250 additional. On 12/4/13, [redacted] emailed to confirm 12/5/13
at 8:30 am for return to our job and the $100 for the cement board. He asked if we could make another payment of
$780, leaving the balance to $300. I
replied that the date and time are fine, as well as the additional $100. I also stated we were ok with the additional
$780 as long as the only thing left was some small amount of molding. I stated that I originally asked him on
10/14/13 if he was painting the fireplace or if it wasn’t included and he
replied yes, he was painting it. In
previous conversations, [redacted] also mentioned that he knew someone who did
specialty painting. I told [redacted] that he
mentioned that fact and I would be willing to call the painter out for an estimate
to see what the difference would be for [redacted] or the painter to handle the
painting. I thought this was a reasonable
consideration since [redacted] had stated he would paint the mantel. On 12/4/13 I received an email from [redacted]
stating he could no longer finish the job.
He explained how he felt he had taken a loss on the job and couldn’t
continue. I went back and forth with
[redacted] stating he was being unreasonable after he was given a sizeable sum of
money. He made many excuses and we went
back and forth regarding the job (I have numerous emails).
After I realized it was fruitless to go back and forth with
[redacted], I contacted [redacted] for assistance.
The quickly stepped in and on 12/9/13, I received an email from [redacted]
apologizing for things getting out of hand.
Among other things, he said he would return but needed a payment of at
least $600. On 12/10/13, I replied and
stated to [redacted] he was worried about not being paid and I’m concerned that he doesn’t
want to finish the job, no one else would want to finish it and we certainly
didn’t have enough material to justify the $800 we gave him. I asked him to come back and assess the job
for remaining material. We would make
sure he was reimbursed for the material purchased. On 12/13/13 [redacted] asked if Tuesday 12/17/13
would work to return and I replied yes. On
12/17/13 [redacted] returned (without receipts) and did some work on the mantle. As a good faith gesture, we gave [redacted] an
additional $600 for his work. At this
point, we were at the mercy of the fabricator since we were unsure what [redacted]
was going to do when he wasn’t returning.
On 1/21/14 I asked [redacted] what his availability would be to return. He began telling me he was booked for 3-4
weeks. But as soon as he could get a
free day, he would come to finish. I
tried to be extremely patient because now [redacted] had approximately 85% of the
payment for the unfinished job. When I
didn’t hear from [redacted] for a couple months, I contacted him again on 4/11/14 and
asked if he would be coming anytime soon.
He replied yes, he was trying but was super busy and booked solid. He stated that the only other work that he
could do were for customers who want to pay the double labor costs to cover
overtime. He stated he couldn’t squeeze
anything in unless it was on evenings or weekends. I replied that [redacted] can give me a night or
weekend and I would make myself available to him for completion. He replied it would now cost an additional
$400 to come on a Saturday. I asked what
Saturday. He replied the earliest would
be 5/3/14. I replied that would be
fine. On 4/28/14, I emailed [redacted] to
confirm he was coming. He replied he had
to cancel and asked if the next Saturday would work. I replied yes, it was fine (which brought us
to 5/10/14). On 5/9/14 I emailed [redacted] to
confirm he was coming and [redacted] replied that he needed to reschedule for the 24th. On 5/16/14, I received an email that stated “sorry
I was not able to come. The company was
able to afford to fully fund the purchase of a well to be drilled in [redacted] so
the villages and the little children can have fresh water. I should be able to make it in a week or two”. After this email, I contacted [redacted]
once again for some assistance. I was in
contact with [redacted] for the next few weeks.
On 6/2/14 I sent [redacted] an email requesting him to come back
to finish the job that he started at the price we agreed upon. I told him there was no need to be concerned
about anything, just complete his portion of the job. Various emails went back and forth with [redacted]
making excuses again (I can supply emails).
On 6/10/14 I again asked [redacted] if he would be finishing the job. He replied, he would need to send out his
estimator with the original drawing to get a material list as to what would be
needed to finish the job. He asked for
my availability. I replied I would make
myself available whenever he needed. I
didn’t hear back from [redacted]. On 6/16/14 I
emailed [redacted] again to see if someone would be coming out that week. Another few emails back and forth and [redacted]
finally said someone would be out 6/24/14 at 8AM. At 10 AM on 6/24/14 I emailed [redacted] to ask if
someone was still coming and he replied yes, at 12. The gentleman came out (without any original
drawing, picture or plans from [redacted]), took quite a number of measurements. I didn’t hear anything for a couple
days. I emailed [redacted] on 6/26/14 and
asked when the gentleman would be returning.
[redacted] replied that he was working up a price and should have it finished
by tomorrow. I did not respond because I
thought it was ludicrous to think I should pay someone to finish a job that
[redacted] had started, had almost all of the money for, never showed us any kind of
receipts for his so-called “loss” of material, and had been leading us on
ridiculously for months. On 7/7/14, [redacted]
emailed me to say the total to finish the fireplace was $2,100 which would
include the painting.
At this point (7/8/14), I contacted the Revdex.com. On 7/10/14 I received an email from [redacted]
asking if I had availability the 3rd week of August to finish and “at
what cost you would be willing to meet in the middle at?” I replied I was not meeting in the middle for
additional costs.
I find our entire conversations outrageous. [redacted], New Creation Carpentry, gave a
price for the job, requested a down payment, received the down payment and then
decided not finish the job. He was asked
to return and after complaints from [redacted]r, he did return to be given
additional payment in good faith to finish and now wants more money.
I gave much information in the formal complaint. As you can tell from the information, this
has been far from an upstanding project.
If you need further confirmation, please feel free to
contact me.
Complaint: [redacted] I am rejecting this response because: On October 1, 2013, I sent [redacted] an email with two pictures of fireplace mantels attached I requested an approximate estimate for each On that same day, [redacted] responded stating distinctly what each mantel would cost He did not say it was an estimate He gave two prices; one for $1,and one for $1, I elected for the $1,mantel and asked [redacted] when he could start I received ***’s name through [redacted] I’m still not quite sure why [redacted] gave [redacted] additional information that I was interested in a kitchen renovation because I did not request [redacted] for that job In any event, [redacted] asked if I wanted him to bring kitchen catalogs We agreed upon 10/8/for [redacted] to begin the jobAt that time when [redacted] arrived, he took measurements for the mantel He never said the price was an estimate We discussed the picture and what it entailedPart of the discussion was the marble surround, which [redacted] stated he would install the marble I had x pieces of marble that we discussed for installation [redacted] never stated a timeline for the project [redacted] said he could return and start the building on Tuesday 10/15/ On 10/12/13, I sent [redacted] an email asking if the there would be a difference for the kind of wood for the mantel if I wanted to stain it [redacted] replied that it would make a difference and if I wanted to stain the wood, I should go with maple wood We discussed coloring a little and at that time [redacted] asked if he could start the job Wednesday 10/16/instead of Tuesday, at which I said yes I confirmed I would like the maple wood and [redacted] stated the maple would be a few hundred extra and he would let me know the next day I replied that I would wait to hear from him for the extra cost because I was already over what I had planned to spend for the project [redacted] replied right back that the maple wood would cost $extra I confirmed that I wanted to go with the maple [redacted] confirmed that he would be over on Wednesday around 8/8:am to begin and asked if I was okay with an $deposit that day Since I was giving [redacted] very close to 50% down payment, I asked if he was staining the completed project and he replied yes [redacted] arrived on Wednesday, 10/16/and was not in more than an hour and had to leave because his daughter became ill He was unable to return for the week He returned one day the following week (approximately hours) Not much work was completed At that time, [redacted] suggested that there should be a shut off for the firebox We discussed various issues with not having the shut off valve and [redacted] suggested it would be better to have it done right [redacted] explained that it was something he could not install [redacted] also suggested to us that it would look good to have a TV overhead the mantel He stated that was electrical work and he could not install that I let [redacted] know that I completely understood both projects [redacted] could not handle I told [redacted] I would call someone to handle the two items [redacted] came another day to work on the project In discussions as the project was coming along, the x marble pieces that I originally had for installation seemed to require a lot of extra work and weren’t finished pieces I looked into purchasing separate whole pieces already cut out for mantel surrounds When they were unavailable at a nearby location, I was referred to a fabricating location A template was required for this application [redacted] offered to meet the gentleman for the fabrication work so he would understand what was required for the marble installation that [redacted] will handle The fabricator met with [redacted] to inform [redacted] what was required for proper installationThe installation required cement board to be installed When the fabricator asked [redacted] how he was going to install the marble, [redacted] replied he was installing it on the plywood The fabricator explained to [redacted] the marble required cement backer board and explained how he should proceed with the installation of the marble when it is delivered Since [redacted] did not look comfortable with the installation process for the marble, I asked [redacted] if he wanted the fabricator to do the marble install and [redacted] would do the prep work for the marble install [redacted] agreed to both In the meantime I was waiting for the workman for the shut off valve and electrical outlet for the TV In an email on 10/27/I informed [redacted] that I didn’t hear back from the plumber and I would keep trying [redacted] replied that it was no problem and it was better to do it right He asked that I keep him posted He also stated that since the finishing time is indefinite, he asked if it would be possible to get another $to get caught up on material and labor On 10/29/13, I replied to [redacted] regarding the workman for the shut off valve and electrical I also replied that giving [redacted] another check was fine but I asked that another check would be almost all of the amount of the project [redacted] did not respond to my question With the work that was completed, [redacted] had installed a piece of plywood above the mantel section with a few huge knots in the board They were very noticeable and we talked about the staining of that board [redacted] agreed to switch out the board This board was also part of the mantel where the workman was going to install the electrical wiring for the TV After my question regarding ***’s request for another $500, [redacted] was unable to return for a week [redacted] stopped back one day after to switch the board out so the electrical work could be completed He stated at that time that he would rather the workman not touch the wood to make any cutouts [redacted] wanted to cut the wood himself I relayed that information to the workman At some point after that, [redacted] changed his mind again and said the workman could make the cutout for the electrical work I contacted the workman and he returned to make the cutout and did his work on 11/13/ I notified [redacted] as soon as it was completed [redacted] replied that he would probably come at the end of the following week On 11/22/I received an email from [redacted] stating he was sorry he wasn’t able to make it that week and he may be able to make it back the next Wednesday but he would let me know how things are going on the Tuesday He also said, if it doesn’t work, the first week of December he should have no problem coming by (Please bear in mind that [redacted] did not receive the additional $he requested) On that Tuesday, 11/26/13, [redacted] emailed me stating he would not be able to make it the next day, which would be the Wednesday On 12/2/ [redacted] emailed me to inform that he had the Thursday open to “finish” the fireplace, and to let me know the cement board that was needed would cost an additional $ I replied to [redacted] that I wasn’t sure he would be finishing because they have to template the marble surround and he would be coming back again I was questioning the additional cost because [redacted] was originally going to do the marble install with my marble anyway I also asked [redacted] what he was allowing for the painting On 12/3/ [redacted] replied giving the breakdown for the cement board that was needed At this time, he said, he didn’t include the painting (which was contradictory from a previous email conversation) and should not be more than $additional On 12/4/13, [redacted] emailed to confirm 12/5/ at 8:am for return to our job and the $for the cement board He asked if we could make another payment of $780, leaving the balance to $ I replied that the date and time are fine, as well as the additional $ I also stated we were ok with the additional $as long as the only thing left was some small amount of molding I stated that I originally asked him on 10/14/if he was painting the fireplace or if it wasn’t included and he replied yes, he was painting it In previous conversations, [redacted] also mentioned that he knew someone who did specialty painting I told [redacted] that he mentioned that fact and I would be willing to call the painter out for an estimate to see what the difference would be for [redacted] or the painter to handle the painting I thought this was a reasonable consideration since [redacted] had stated he would paint the mantel On 12/4/I received an email from [redacted] stating he could no longer finish the job He explained how he felt he had taken a loss on the job and couldn’t continue I went back and forth with [redacted] stating he was being unreasonable after he was given a sizeable sum of money He made many excuses and we went back and forth regarding the job (I have numerous emails) After I realized it was fruitless to go back and forth with ***, I contacted [redacted] for assistance The quickly stepped in and on 12/9/13, I received an email from [redacted] apologizing for things getting out of hand Among other things, he said he would return but needed a payment of at least $ On 12/10/13, I replied and stated to [redacted] he was worried about not being paid and I’m concerned that he doesn’t want to finish the job, no one else would want to finish it and we certainly didn’t have enough material to justify the $we gave him I asked him to come back and assess the job for remaining material We would make sure he was reimbursed for the material purchased On 12/13/ [redacted] asked if Tuesday 12/17/ would work to return and I replied yes On 12/17/ [redacted] returned (without receipts) and did some work on the mantle As a good faith gesture, we gave [redacted] an additional $for his work At this point, we were at the mercy of the fabricator since we were unsure what [redacted] was going to do when he wasn’t returning On 1/21/I asked [redacted] what his availability would be to return He began telling me he was booked for 3- weeks But as soon as he could get a free day, he would come to finish I tried to be extremely patient because now [redacted] had approximately 85% of the payment for the unfinished job When I didn’t hear from [redacted] for a couple months, I contacted him again on 4/11/and asked if he would be coming anytime soon He replied yes, he was trying but was super busy and booked solid He stated that the only other work that he could do were for customers who want to pay the double labor costs to cover overtime He stated he couldn’t squeeze anything in unless it was on evenings or weekends I replied that [redacted] can give me a night or weekend and I would make myself available to him for completion He replied it would now cost an additional $to come on a Saturday I asked what Saturday He replied the earliest would be 5/3/ I replied that would be fine On 4/28/14, I emailed [redacted] to confirm he was coming He replied he had to cancel and asked if the next Saturday would work I replied yes, it was fine (which brought us to 5/10/14) On 5/9/I emailed [redacted] to confirm he was coming and [redacted] replied that he needed to reschedule for the 24th On 5/16/14, I received an email that stated “sorry I was not able to come The company was able to afford to fully fund the purchase of a well to be drilled in *** so the villages and the little children can have fresh water I should be able to make it in a week or two” After this email, I contacted [redacted] once again for some assistance I was in contact with [redacted] for the next few weeks On 6/2/I sent [redacted] an email requesting him to come back to finish the job that he started at the price we agreed upon I told him there was no need to be concerned about anything, just complete his portion of the job Various emails went back and forth with [redacted] making excuses again (I can supply emails) On 6/10/I again asked [redacted] if he would be finishing the job He replied, he would need to send out his estimator with the original drawing to get a material list as to what would be needed to finish the job He asked for my availability I replied I would make myself available whenever he needed I didn’t hear back from *** On 6/16/I emailed [redacted] again to see if someone would be coming out that week Another few emails back and forth and [redacted] finally said someone would be out 6/24/at 8AM At AM on 6/24/I emailed [redacted] to ask if someone was still coming and he replied yes, at The gentleman came out (without any original drawing, picture or plans from ***), took quite a number of measurements I didn’t hear anything for a couple days I emailed [redacted] on 6/26/and asked when the gentleman would be returning [redacted] replied that he was working up a price and should have it finished by tomorrow I did not respond because I thought it was ludicrous to think I should pay someone to finish a job that [redacted] had started, had almost all of the money for, never showed us any kind of receipts for his so-called “loss” of material, and had been leading us on ridiculously for months On 7/7/14, [redacted] emailed me to say the total to finish the fireplace was $2,which would include the painting At this point (7/8/14), I contacted the Revdex.com On 7/10/I received an email from [redacted] asking if I had availability the 3rd week of August to finish and “at what cost you would be willing to meet in the middle at?” I replied I was not meeting in the middle for additional costs I find our entire conversations outrageous [redacted] , New Creation Carpentry, gave a price for the job, requested a down payment, received the down payment and then decided not finish the job He was asked to return and after complaints from [redacted] r, he did return to be given additional payment in good faith to finish and now wants more money I gave much information in the formal complaint As you can tell from the information, this has been far from an upstanding project If you need further confirmation, please feel free to contact me Regards, [redacted]
Business Response to a Complaint
padding: 3pt; border: #f0f0f0; background-color: transparent;">
Complaint ID#:
[redacted]
Company Name:
New Creation Carpentry
Company Contact:
[redacted]
Company Phone:
[redacted]
Company Email:
[redacted]
Person Who Sent the Complaint:
[redacted]
Staff Member:
[redacted]
Response:
First, we would like to state that we are 100% willing and eager to rectify the current situation at hand. On October 1, 2013 our company received an email from the client with a request for, and I quote, "an approximate estimate" for a custom built fireplace surround. The same day we provided this "approximate estimate." Our company received a deposit in the amount of $800 on October 17, 2014, the day we started the project. The job was only going to be 3 days long. As soon as we started the job, the client called in a plumber to take care of a gas line issue which should have been handled prior to our arrival. This delayed our finishing of the project to about 3 weeks because of a part that needed to be ordered. At this point, we are about 4-5 weeks into the project when my employee and I come back to work our 2nd day. The client then decides to hire an electrician to install a cable and electrical line to house a flat screen TV. The client had asked if we could install the marble, which I, [redacted], personally said yes, but I did not give her a price for the additional work. I did not feel comfortable installing the marble since I am not a marble specialist and I communicated this very clearly to the client. When the client decided to hire a marble company to install the marble surround, she somehow assumed and stated to us that we were responsible for the cost of the marble. We spent 4 hours meeting with the marble company discussing the best way to complete the project. After this third additional contractor was hired, we told the client we could no longer finish the job under the original "approximate estimate" cost. The job had become way bigger than the original agreed upon scope of work. It wasn't until February of 2014 when we heard back from the client stating that she did not have the marble installed. Repeatedly we told the client the job had become bigger than our original agreed upon scope of work and the cost of the project would have to be discussed. We have spoken several times trying to come to an agreement which the client continually blames us for her hiring additional contractors. We, New Creation Carpentry, believe there needs to be a 3rd party introduced to bring the situation to a close. Again, we are 100% willing and eager to rectify the situation and take full responsibility for any wrong that we have done. The project was originally a 3 day job which turned into several months because of the clients own will to hire additional contractors to make additional changes to our original agreement. The additional changes to an original agreement cause for additional costs which the client assumes we are responsible for. We have all emails saved for records and are available upon request.
Sent on: 7/18/2014 1:39:32 PM
Sent by: 69.142.53.184
Complaint: [redacted]
I am rejecting this response because:
On October 1, 2013, I sent [redacted] an email with two
pictures of fireplace mantels attached.
I requested an approximate estimate for each. On that same day, [redacted] responded stating
distinctly what each mantel would cost.
He did not say it was an estimate.
He gave two prices; one for $1,100 and one for $1,650. I elected for the $1,650 mantel and asked
[redacted] when he could start. I received
[redacted]’s name through [redacted] I’m
still not quite sure why [redacted] gave [redacted] additional information that I
was interested in a kitchen renovation because I did not request [redacted] for that
job. In any event, [redacted] asked if I
wanted him to bring kitchen catalogs. We
agreed upon 10/8/13 for [redacted] to begin the job. At that time when [redacted] arrived,
he took measurements for the mantel. He
never said the price was an estimate. We
discussed the picture and what it entailed. Part of the discussion was the
marble surround, which [redacted] stated he would install the marble. I had 12 x 12 pieces of marble that we
discussed for installation. [redacted] never
stated a timeline for the project. [redacted] said he could return and start the
building on Tuesday 10/15/13. On 10/12/13,
I sent [redacted] an email asking if the there would be a difference for the kind of
wood for the mantel if I wanted to stain it.
[redacted] replied that it would make a difference and if I wanted to stain
the wood, I should go with maple wood.
We discussed coloring a little and at that time [redacted] asked if he could
start the job Wednesday 10/16/13 instead of Tuesday, at which I said yes. I confirmed I would like the maple wood and
[redacted] stated the maple would be a few hundred extra and he would let me know the
next day. I replied that I would wait to
hear from him for the extra cost because I was already over what I had planned
to spend for the project. [redacted] replied
right back that the maple wood would cost $130 extra. I confirmed that I wanted to go with the
maple. [redacted] confirmed that he would be
over on Wednesday around 8/8:30 am to begin and asked if I was okay with an
$800 deposit that day. Since I was
giving [redacted] very close to 50% down payment, I asked if he was staining the
completed project and he replied yes. [redacted]
arrived on Wednesday, 10/16/13 and was not in more than an hour and had to
leave because his daughter became ill.
He was unable to return for the week.
He returned one day the following week (approximately 4 hours). Not much work was completed. At that time, [redacted] suggested that there
should be a shut off for the firebox. We
discussed various issues with not having the shut off valve and [redacted] suggested
it would be better to have it done right.
[redacted] explained that it was something he could not install. [redacted] also suggested to us that it would look
good to have a TV overhead the mantel.
He stated that was electrical work and he could not install that. I let [redacted] know that I completely understood
both projects [redacted] could not handle. I
told [redacted] I would call someone to handle the two items.
[redacted] came another day to work on the project. In discussions as the project was coming
along, the 12 x 12 marble pieces that I originally had for installation seemed
to require a lot of extra work and weren’t finished pieces. I looked into purchasing separate whole
pieces already cut out for mantel surrounds. When they were unavailable at a nearby
location, I was referred to a fabricating location. A template was required for this
application. [redacted] offered to meet the
gentleman for the fabrication work so he would understand what was required for
the marble installation that [redacted] will handle.
The fabricator met with [redacted] to inform [redacted] what was required for proper
installation. The installation required cement board to be installed. When the fabricator asked [redacted] how he was
going to install the marble, [redacted] replied he was installing it on the plywood. The fabricator explained to [redacted] the marble
required cement backer board and explained how he should proceed with the
installation of the marble when it is delivered. Since [redacted] did not look comfortable with the
installation process for the marble, I asked [redacted] if he wanted the fabricator
to do the marble install and [redacted] would do the prep work for the marble
install. [redacted] agreed to both. In the meantime I was waiting for the workman
for the shut off valve and electrical outlet for the TV. In an email on 10/27/13 I informed [redacted] that
I didn’t hear back from the plumber and I would keep trying. [redacted] replied that it was no problem and it
was better to do it right. He asked that
I keep him posted. He also stated that
since the finishing time is indefinite, he asked if it would be possible to get
another $500 to get caught up on material and labor. On 10/29/13, I replied to [redacted] regarding the
workman for the shut off valve and electrical.
I also replied that giving [redacted] another check was fine but I asked that another
check would be almost all of the amount of the project. [redacted] did not respond to my question.
With the work that was completed, [redacted] had installed a piece
of plywood above the mantel section with a few huge knots in the board. They were very noticeable and we talked about
the staining of that board. [redacted] agreed
to switch out the board. This board was
also part of the mantel where the workman was going to install the electrical
wiring for the TV.
After my question regarding [redacted]’s request for another $500,
[redacted] was unable to return for a week.
[redacted] stopped back one day after to switch the board out so
the electrical work could be completed.
He stated at that time that he would rather the workman not touch the
wood to make any cutouts. [redacted] wanted to
cut the wood himself. I relayed that
information to the workman. At some
point after that, [redacted] changed his mind again and said the workman could make
the cutout for the electrical work. I
contacted the workman and he returned to make the cutout and did his work on
11/13/13. I notified [redacted] as soon as it
was completed. [redacted] replied that he
would probably come at the end of the following week. On 11/22/13 I received an email from [redacted]
stating he was sorry he wasn’t able to make it that week and he may be able to
make it back the next Wednesday but he would let me know how things are going
on the Tuesday. He also said, if it
doesn’t work, the first week of December he should have no problem coming
by. (Please bear in mind that [redacted] did
not receive the additional $500 he requested)
On that Tuesday, 11/26/13, [redacted] emailed me stating he would not be able
to make it the next day, which would be the Wednesday. On 12/2/13 [redacted] emailed me to inform that he
had the Thursday open to “finish” the fireplace, and to let me know the cement
board that was needed would cost an additional $100. I replied to [redacted] that I wasn’t sure he would
be finishing because they have to template the marble surround and he would be
coming back again. I was questioning the
additional cost because [redacted] was originally going to do the marble install with
my marble anyway. I also asked [redacted] what
he was allowing for the painting. On
12/3/13 [redacted] replied giving the breakdown for the cement board that was
needed. At this time, he said, he didn’t
include the painting (which was contradictory from a previous email
conversation) and should not be more than $250 additional. On 12/4/13, [redacted] emailed to confirm 12/5/13
at 8:30 am for return to our job and the $100 for the cement board. He asked if we could make another payment of
$780, leaving the balance to $300. I
replied that the date and time are fine, as well as the additional $100. I also stated we were ok with the additional
$780 as long as the only thing left was some small amount of molding. I stated that I originally asked him on
10/14/13 if he was painting the fireplace or if it wasn’t included and he
replied yes, he was painting it. In
previous conversations, [redacted] also mentioned that he knew someone who did
specialty painting. I told [redacted] that he
mentioned that fact and I would be willing to call the painter out for an estimate
to see what the difference would be for [redacted] or the painter to handle the
painting. I thought this was a reasonable
consideration since [redacted] had stated he would paint the mantel. On 12/4/13 I received an email from [redacted]
stating he could no longer finish the job.
He explained how he felt he had taken a loss on the job and couldn’t
continue. I went back and forth with
[redacted] stating he was being unreasonable after he was given a sizeable sum of
money. He made many excuses and we went
back and forth regarding the job (I have numerous emails).
After I realized it was fruitless to go back and forth with
[redacted], I contacted [redacted] for assistance.
The quickly stepped in and on 12/9/13, I received an email from [redacted]
apologizing for things getting out of hand.
Among other things, he said he would return but needed a payment of at
least $600. On 12/10/13, I replied and
stated to [redacted] he was worried about not being paid and I’m concerned that he doesn’t
want to finish the job, no one else would want to finish it and we certainly
didn’t have enough material to justify the $800 we gave him. I asked him to come back and assess the job
for remaining material. We would make
sure he was reimbursed for the material purchased. On 12/13/13 [redacted] asked if Tuesday 12/17/13
would work to return and I replied yes. On
12/17/13 [redacted] returned (without receipts) and did some work on the mantle. As a good faith gesture, we gave [redacted] an
additional $600 for his work. At this
point, we were at the mercy of the fabricator since we were unsure what [redacted]
was going to do when he wasn’t returning.
On 1/21/14 I asked [redacted] what his availability would be to return. He began telling me he was booked for 3-4
weeks. But as soon as he could get a
free day, he would come to finish. I
tried to be extremely patient because now [redacted] had approximately 85% of the
payment for the unfinished job. When I
didn’t hear from [redacted] for a couple months, I contacted him again on 4/11/14 and
asked if he would be coming anytime soon.
He replied yes, he was trying but was super busy and booked solid. He stated that the only other work that he
could do were for customers who want to pay the double labor costs to cover
overtime. He stated he couldn’t squeeze
anything in unless it was on evenings or weekends. I replied that [redacted] can give me a night or
weekend and I would make myself available to him for completion. He replied it would now cost an additional
$400 to come on a Saturday. I asked what
Saturday. He replied the earliest would
be 5/3/14. I replied that would be
fine. On 4/28/14, I emailed [redacted] to
confirm he was coming. He replied he had
to cancel and asked if the next Saturday would work. I replied yes, it was fine (which brought us
to 5/10/14). On 5/9/14 I emailed [redacted] to
confirm he was coming and [redacted] replied that he needed to reschedule for the 24th. On 5/16/14, I received an email that stated “sorry
I was not able to come. The company was
able to afford to fully fund the purchase of a well to be drilled in [redacted] so
the villages and the little children can have fresh water. I should be able to make it in a week or two”. After this email, I contacted [redacted]
once again for some assistance. I was in
contact with [redacted] for the next few weeks.
On 6/2/14 I sent [redacted] an email requesting him to come back
to finish the job that he started at the price we agreed upon. I told him there was no need to be concerned
about anything, just complete his portion of the job. Various emails went back and forth with [redacted]
making excuses again (I can supply emails).
On 6/10/14 I again asked [redacted] if he would be finishing the job. He replied, he would need to send out his
estimator with the original drawing to get a material list as to what would be
needed to finish the job. He asked for
my availability. I replied I would make
myself available whenever he needed. I
didn’t hear back from [redacted]. On 6/16/14 I
emailed [redacted] again to see if someone would be coming out that week. Another few emails back and forth and [redacted]
finally said someone would be out 6/24/14 at 8AM. At 10 AM on 6/24/14 I emailed [redacted] to ask if
someone was still coming and he replied yes, at 12. The gentleman came out (without any original
drawing, picture or plans from [redacted]), took quite a number of measurements. I didn’t hear anything for a couple
days. I emailed [redacted] on 6/26/14 and
asked when the gentleman would be returning.
[redacted] replied that he was working up a price and should have it finished
by tomorrow. I did not respond because I
thought it was ludicrous to think I should pay someone to finish a job that
[redacted] had started, had almost all of the money for, never showed us any kind of
receipts for his so-called “loss” of material, and had been leading us on
ridiculously for months. On 7/7/14, [redacted]
emailed me to say the total to finish the fireplace was $2,100 which would
include the painting.
At this point (7/8/14), I contacted the Revdex.com. On 7/10/14 I received an email from [redacted]
asking if I had availability the 3rd week of August to finish and “at
what cost you would be willing to meet in the middle at?” I replied I was not meeting in the middle for
additional costs.
I find our entire conversations outrageous. [redacted], New Creation Carpentry, gave a
price for the job, requested a down payment, received the down payment and then
decided not finish the job. He was asked
to return and after complaints from [redacted]r, he did return to be given
additional payment in good faith to finish and now wants more money.
I gave much information in the formal complaint. As you can tell from the information, this
has been far from an upstanding project.
If you need further confirmation, please feel free to
contact me.
Regards,
[redacted]