A Simple Home Upgrade Turns into a Costly Disaster
When Rob and Rosemary Merrick hired a contractor to expand their backyard deck, they envisioned a beautiful outdoor space where they could relax and entertain. What they got instead was a poorly built structure riddled with code violations—and a contractor whose customer service was just as shaky as his workmanship.
Their story is a cautionary tale for homeowners looking to hire contractors. It underscores the importance of vetting professionals thoroughly before signing on the dotted line. So, how can you avoid a similar fate? Let’s break it down.
The Deck That Was Doomed from the Start
From the beginning, the Merricks had concerns about the contractor, Mike Murray. His work habits—smoking on the job, leaving construction debris everywhere—were just the start. Once the deck was complete, it became painfully clear that corners had been cut.
A building inspector confirmed their worst fears:
- The deck’s frame, which should have been double-banded for stability, was single-banded instead.
- Key structural components, like joist brackets, were missing.
- The cornerstone support post was a four-by-four instead of the required six-by-six, making the deck dangerously unstable.
For the Merricks, this wasn’t just about shoddy work—it was about safety. They were left with a deck that might not hold up under weight, putting their family and guests at risk.
Unfortunately, instead of taking responsibility, Murray dismissed their concerns. Worse yet, when confronted, his response was far from professional.
A Contractor’s Customer Service as Weak as His Work
When Rob and Rosemary attempted to address the issues with Murray, his reaction was anything but customer-friendly. His text messages were laced with profanity and threats—hardly the response of a responsible business owner.
Among the shocking messages:
"Tell all your friends the same thing, I don’t care."
"Facebook’s fun until it gets real."
Rather than handling the situation with professionalism, he resorted to intimidation. It’s a prime example of what not to tolerate from a contractor.
How to Avoid a Home Improvement Disaster
The Merricks’ experience is an unfortunate but valuable lesson: not all contractors operate with integrity. Here’s how you can protect yourself before hiring a home improvement professional:
1. Research, Research, Research
- Look up online reviews and ratings. Sites like TrustDALE, the Better Business Bureau, and Google Reviews can reveal patterns of behavior.
- Check for complaints. If others have reported similar issues, it’s a red flag.
2. Verify Credentials and Experience
- Make sure your contractor is licensed and insured. In Georgia, a residential contractor’s license is required for certain types of construction work.
- Ask for references from past clients and follow up with them.
3. Get a Detailed Contract
- Outline expectations, materials, timelines, and payment terms in writing.
- Ensure the contract specifies that work must be completed to local building codes.
4. Don’t Ignore Red Flags
- Unprofessional behavior, reluctance to answer questions, and vague estimates are all warning signs.
- If a contractor seems dismissive or aggressive, walk away.
5. Know Your Rights
- If you’ve been scammed or received poor workmanship, you may have legal recourse. Report the contractor to your local consumer protection agency or seek mediation services.
The Bottom Line: Hire Smart, Protect Your Home
Rob and Rosemary’s story is an unfortunate reminder that the wrong contractor can cost you more than just money—it can cost you peace of mind and even put your safety at risk. The best defense? Do your due diligence.
If you’re planning a home improvement project, don’t just take a contractor’s word for it—verify their credentials, read reviews, and demand quality work. And if something seems off, trust your instincts.
Looking for a vetted contractor with a proven track record of excellence? Visit TrustDALE.com to find professionals who stand behind their work.
Have you ever had a nightmare experience with a contractor? Share your story in the comments below—we’d love to hear how you handled it!