Here is our side of this story, no excuses! This job started by the request of the member to install a 10x20 paver patio in the back of the house, off the deck and a 10x10 paver patio around the fire pit. We prepared an estimate, and then waited 2 weeks as the member went back and forth on his decision to proceed. After the estimate was approved and the work was started on the patio, the members decided to change it to a 15x19 paver patio. Therefore, the proposal kept changing because of the indecisiveness of what the customer really wanted, not because of our lack of detailed estimates. Changing of the mind is completely understandable and respected, especially once work is started, new ideas can happen. The estimate changed to accommodate the customers’ requests. When the member offered cash as a deposit for materials, obviously we weren’t going to refuse! When the member requested that we work with him with payments because he thought he was going to lose his job, we obliged. We removed 6 yards of dirt to install the patio, which we did not include in the estimate or invoice. We were not going to charge for this if they had paid us in full. We did the landscaping after the patio was completed and there were no signs of the patio ‘buckling’, nor did the members mention they were dissatisfied or that there was a problem. The patio was not sealed per customers’ decision, which was also clearly indicated on the estimate as additional. The remainder of the 6 yards of dirt we removed was left for the purpose of combining the 2 flowerbeds in the back. The sod that was removed for the patio was also left per request for reuse. The landscaping proposal included the pine trees in the back to be pruned, 21 bushes to be relocated, installation of 26 trees/bushes/flowers, and mulch. We ended up pruning 5-6 butterfly bushes and the juniper in addition. We installed 36 plants, more than estimated, as a courtesy to make sure the beds looked full. The relocated bushes were spaced to leave openings to walk through from the patio to the back yard. Eventually, the members stated they wanted a walkway to the fire pit. There were 3 bushes that were actually dug back up and repositioned when the members mentioned their dissatisfaction. They did express their gratification and approval of the improvements. The flowers referred to as dying after 2 days, rebloomed. Yes, flowers normally last a week, more or less, but when they die, new flowers bloom. The plants themselves did not die. We had extra mulch and replenished an existing bed after the planted areas were mulched. I cannot reiterate enough how much the members expressed their contentment with us and our work. But when it came to final payment, how all opinions have been renounced and a plethora of accusations have exploded. Because we do not like to charge for unforeseen complications after the proposal is approved and the work initiated, we did not charge for the extreme difficulty and encumbrances to extract the 13 bushes that seemed like they were in concrete, with wires and hoses wrapped around them. We were, however, overly cautious with the wires and hoses due to the fact they were in current use and desired to continue equal use with the updated landscaping. All utilities were assessed and functioning properly upon completion of the landscaping. They were left on top of the mulch per the member’s request and proclamation that the member would take care of them. The estimated job completion time of 1 week was clearly indicated on the proposal. There was never any mention of 3 days. We are extremely meticulous and our work and job sites represent our company. Therefore, our employees including ourselves, always cleanup at the end of each day to demonstrate how much pride we take in our work. All tools were picked up and all customers’ tools were returned. The only reason the customers’ tools were out was because multiple tools were broken in use on the difficult terrain. When the undisclosed, inconspicuous dog refuge was broken, we apologized and offered to replace the cap, which was refused. We have workers who have been with us for years, who we compensate very well. Unfortunately, not everyone has the same work ethics or motivation. We started a new worker, just like all companies, who didn’t work out because of his bad mouth and lack of motivation to work until the job is completed. He preferred to talk rather than work. We treat everyone fairly, just as we would like to be treated. We are appalled at the accusation of the use of demeaning language. We have multiracial family, friends, neighbors, and clients. We do not discriminate towards race, color, national origin, ethics, creed, religion, sexual preference, gender, age or disability. Especially since we have majority black neighbors, friends and clients, we refrain from using language which might be offensive. We were in constant contact with the members to assess, confirm and inquired if they liked each and every product: including pavers and plants before installation. They expressed they were extremely happy every time we spoke with them. When we finished both jobs and requested final payment. The member stated he would catch up with us the following week. After 1 week we contacted him and he replied he researched and found other contractors to do the service cheaper and was not going to pay us. We completed the work, they owe us final payment. We are not looking to collect more than we are owed, only what was agreed upon for the completed work. We have plenty of before and after pictures as well. Contractors beware of clients who refuse final payment!