Lewis, The Company

I contacted Derrek to contract for a small job. I stated that we needed baseboards, quarter round and caulking done for the baseboard molding. I stated that we had all materials (boards, caulk and quarterround). I was quoted $55/hour minimum 2 hours. This was not provided to me in writing or via email but I trusted Derrek. The job was scheduled for 9am on Tuesday the 7th.

The two workers arrived at 9:30. I showed them the materials they would need and told them if they needed anything just ask. My wife was very ill (and I had to take her to the hospital after the workers left) so I was tending to her during the job. After 1 hour they said they were finished and handed me a bill for $221. I was expecting a bill of $110 based on the initial quote given to me by Derrek. I called Derrek to ask about the difference, he said he'd take $153 instead and would send me a revised receipt via email. Because I wanted to tend to my sick spouse I agreed, handed them $165 in cash and proceeded to take my wife to the hospital.

After returning home and inspecting the job that was done, we were extremely disappointed. No caulking was done and the boards were badly hacked together. I called Derrek and was told he was out but I'd get a return call. I did not receive a call, so later in the week I called back. Then I was told Derrek was "on spring break" until Monday the 13th of April. I spoke to Lee who said there was nothing he could do, I had to wait to talk to Derrek.

I spoke with Derrek today and he said that I never mentioned caulking and if I had he would not have contracted the job, essentially calling me a liar in the process as I specifically mentioned caulking, finishing the job and handed his workers a loaded caulk gun when they were on site. Since I paid cash, he had no incentive to work with me and he did not. He said that he would not send a team to finish the work and that he would not return any of the over payment I made.

Summary: I was overcharged for inferior work and the company did not finish the job contracted and would not make good when confronted about it.

Lessons learned:
1) Always pay with a credit card for your own protection.
2) Always get your estimate in writing first.
3) Always inspect the work thoroughly before the workers leave no matter what.
4) Do not trust/hire Lewis Company Floors