Problems in all areas of the remodel:
Directions were not followed even though we provided a portfolio that included specific fixtures, where they could be purchased and the code number of items. Asbestos tile removal was not done properly and we were ill-advised to take measures--excavate basement foundation and add support in the basement to level the hallway floor. The basement problem turned out to be a leaky water heater and a flooring installer we hired was able to level the floor with shims.
Lower cabinets in the kitchen were improperly installed and moved after granite was installed. One counter was out of level and the largest granite section broke. The counter had to be leveled before an alternate slab of granite could be installed. Two identical windows in the bathroom were not at the same height. Workers caused damage where they worked and took our dining chairs out of storage and damaged them. The contractor's very young children installed a crushed dryer vent.
Porcelain tiles were broken after installation and granite counter in one bath was damaged when shower enclosures were installed. Shower doors on both showers do not work properly.
Bath fans were never vented so if we use them, insulation comes into the bathrooms. There is still an open hole in the roof where a plumbing vent pipe was moved. This is to the new roof supervised by Luis. The roof did not pass inspection. As far as I know, there were no other inspections--electrical, plumbing.
The electrician did not follow plans that were clearly drawn and did not finish his job. We hired an electrical contractor to finish and trouble-shoot the job @ $2900. Some outlets were not where they should be or eliminated and one small counter has 3 outlets. One switch does nothing.The electrician also drilled a hole in a plumbing pipe as well as drilled several large holes in the just installed maple kitchen cabinets. The cabinet maker covered the holes but of course you see the repair.
There is a chip in one bath sink and an imperfection in the new cast iron bathtub.
We complained about the poor sheetrock finishing and Luis said that "It's an old house" and "We never discussed the quality." Luis got the sheetrock finisher to come back and wanted to add an extra charge.
About the cost: We had an initial estimate that we knew would increase. Luis brought by a contract that we signed. He then said he had left something off the bid and needed to change it. We never saw or signed another contract. At a later point we pointed out there was a $13,000 difference in what we had paid and what his new figures indicated. We supplied proof of payments. It was simple addition. Luis said his accountant was not available. His accountant never was available and the discrepancy was never resolved.
Luis presented new figures but not as a contract and no provision for a signature, We paid more than this amount because the granite counter installers were not paid. The job was never finished
