WINSLOW CARPENTRY, INC.

I contracted with Winslow for a partial remodeling of three bathrooms and the kitchen. The estimator, Mr. R, went through the house with us to see what we wanted done. We learned that the estimate would include an allowance for purchased parts and materials. We received the estimate. Based on this estimate and others received from other contactors, we revised the scope, decided on materials and provided a plumbing fixture quotation; we received a revised estimate. The estimate omitted ceiling lights that we had requested and we requested a few other changes. Mr. R revised the estimate again. We received revised fixture estimates and selected countertop materials from a source Mr. R. referred us to. Total proposal cost was $26,454. Mr. R brought over the construction supervisor, Mr. S, after the contract was signed. Mr. S. recommended some changes that we agreed to that ultimately contributed to about 25% of the cost increase. Work started early by several days which was fine with us. The countertop order was delayed due to a breakdown in communications between Winslow and the countertop provider; a delay we discovered only after making our own inquiries with the provider. The countertops arrived 10 days after we were first told they would be in. We also decided to handle the shower door ourselves since Mr. R wasn?t pressing us to obtain it through Winslow. When I was presented with the allowance cost increase that included a 25% surcharge, I asked Mr. R for the detailed backup of his allowance estimate and discovered it was thousands of dollars below the quotes we had previously provided him for fixtures and countertops; it also omitted some items: a toilet and shower fixtures. This was the only area of discontent we had with Winslow. We paid the amount but we let Mr. R know that we were disappointed that the estimate was inappropriately low to begin with. He provided unconvincing explanations and justifications that didn?t satisfy us. We eventually brought the matter to the attention of the construction supervisor, Mr. S., who understood why we were unhappy. He showed us a more recent quote where the allowance items were itemized and priced; something we didn?t see until we asked for it and by then it was too late to do anything about it. The work Winslow did was satisfactory. The workers all went about their work with minimum chatter, they were diligent, careful, cleaned up after themselves, and were unfailingly courteous. I?ve since discovered a few minor ?punch list? items ? missing caulk along to the top of the stall shower enclosure and smudges of caulk on the bathtub surfaces that should have been cleaned up. In sum, I can recommend Winslow but with cautions that apply to any such undertaking: leave nothing undecided before signing the contract and get complete itemized estimates.

They are excellent and very punctual. Communication was great and prices are very good. The owner has been out three times to check on the progress. You do have a supervisor and he has been here almost every day. They have also done exactly what they said they were going to do.