After an initial inspection and estimate, we were informed that removal of debris was included in the process, if not the price, and that it might be an extra $100 or so. They were 20 minutes from the end of the project, and we were informed that the labourer they had working was unable to finish because of debris. even HE said he would do it. but they made us call unskilled labourers who showed up drunk and unable to do it, so what were we supposed to do? we could not get the debris out, so had to go back to them, and they charged us over $250.00 to do something they should have done in the first place as it is part of their installation, and they have people comfortable crawling into tight spaces. basically a terribly run business, and they bend you over a barrel before they charge you up the yin yang for work that should be included. go elsewhere.
- Approximate cost of services:
- $1,500.00
- Company Response
Just to set the story straight.
a. Gave quote for spray foam insulation only. Estimator looked in the space but did not go completely under to the far side of the crawlspace and it was too dark to have complete visibility.
b. Installer showed up to do the work as scheduled. Once inside he did as much of the job as was possible but there was debris impeding his way. We could have easily left at this point and not completed the job and the homeowner would never have known and would not have had to pay $250 to clear out the space. But because we take pride in our work and we wanted to complete the job properly. In order to properly complete the job the debris needed to be removed. As we had booked another job our crew had to move on. We advised the homeowner that once cleared out we would complete. We would not charge any additional even though we would have to return.
c. Asked customer to call us once cleared out. They could not arrange and asked for my help.
d. Gave them a number for labour link to arrange for clearing out OR suggested they look in the local paper under "handyman services".
(we are spray foam insulators not general contractors and therefore are not insured with WSIB for other work AND our rates would be higher than general labour and I was trying to save the customer $.
e. Labour that they hired could not do it or likely felt that the rate he was being paid to clear the space was not worth it. Keep in mind that the space is very small and contained dead animals, rotting material, wood, garbage, rocks etc.
f. When the customer could not get anyone else to do it we agreed. $250 is not unreasonable for this work. Homeowner had the option to do it themselves or arrange for someone cheaper to do it. Evidently those options did not work out - again, not our fault.
g. I did my best to complete this job. It would have been much easier for me to walk away as it was not a money maker given the return trips and trying to schedule additional work that was the homeowner's responsibility.
Unfortunate that you were not happy about spending $250 to clear out the space but hopefully the increased warmth and comfort in your home has made it worthwhile.We are not in business of ripping people off and this is why we suggested that the area be properly cleared out so we could completely seal it off and do the job right.
