From Arielle B.
Double J Renovation Services LLC
UPDATED REVIEW:
As previously documented in my first review, we initially hired this contractor after finding them on Thumbtack for a smaller project. That first job—opening up a wall and closing off a window—was completed well and without issue. Because of that experience, we felt comfortable hiring them for additional work throughout our home.
Those additional projects included popcorn ceiling removal, opening up more walls, and building out a stairwell connecting the upstairs and downstairs. Some of this work, such as the popcorn ceiling removal, was done adequately. However, significant issues arose with the stair construction.
In addition to completing work we did not request (including adding crown molding in areas we had not approved), the stairs themselves were poorly constructed. At the time, we were in the middle of trying to move into our home with two children and a newborn on the way, under pressure to vacate our previous residence as our lease had ended. Because of this, it took us some time to fully assess and raise concerns about the workmanship.
Within approximately one week of moving in, the stair railings became unstable and wobbly. Shortly after, the stairs themselves began separating, creating a serious safety concern.
When the contractor later reached out to discuss the remaining payment, we attempted to raise these concerns and have a reasonable conversation about the quality of the work and the amount owed. We were clear that we were not refusing to pay, but wanted to discuss the unsafe workmanship—specifically the stairs—and the unapproved additions.
At that point, the conversation deteriorated quickly. The contractor became hostile, stated that full payment was required, and was unwilling to engage in any discussion about the issues or possible resolution.
Given the financial dispute and the safety implications of the stairs, we felt the most responsible and appropriate step was to resolve the matter through the court system.
The judge ultimately ruled in the contractor’s favor on the basis that we should have allowed them an opportunity to repair the stairs. While we understand the legal reasoning, it’s important to explain why that was not a reasonable or safe option for us. Stairs are a critical structural and safety component of a home. When a contractor demonstrates a lack of competence in building something as fundamental as a staircase—resulting in instability and separation—it is not prudent or safe to allow the same contractor to attempt repairs. At that point, trust is lost, and the risk to occupants, especially children, is too great.
We were forced to hire a qualified professional to completely rebuild the stairs at a cost of $20,000.
In addition to that expense, we were still required to pay the original $5,000 balance—not because the work was acceptable, but because the court determined we should have given the contractor the opportunity to attempt repairs.
All of this is to say: be extremely cautious about what work you allow this contractor to take on. They present themselves as capable of handling a wide range of projects, but their actual expertise is limited. Agreeing to work outside their true skill set resulted in a $20,000 mistake for us, with no accountability for unsafe workmanship.
I strongly recommend proceeding with caution—especially for structural or safety-critical work.
INITIAL REVIEW: We’ve found the contractors we’ll use for everything in our home! Double J renovation came in quoted us, (the quote was the best price we received) and executed our project perfectly. We’ve already scheduled our second round of repairs/ renovations .
If you’re in the market for reliable, cost effective, professional contractors.. I highly recommend Double J Renovation
