I hired 10X to perform work at my home years ago and again this week. During the first event, they did great work and always showed up when they said they would. After having sold that particular home and purchasing another, I had work I wanted to get completed that either I didn't have enough knowledge to do or didn't have enough time to do. So, with having worked with them previously, I asked for a few quotes.
I originally wanted 14 recessed lights (living room, bedroom, kitchen) which was quoted. I had to go back and ask for a revised quote and cut the total down to only installing four in the living room due to having to have some pretty expensive maintenance performed on the house, after the original quote request.
I received the revised quote, which stated (as written) "Lights .and all wire and all. materials and labor $XXX includes a dimmer for living room adding 4 recessed lights". This quote was slightly more expensive per light but was reasonably in line with the cost per light in comparison to the original request for 14 lights.
I gave 10X the go ahead and we agreed on an install date of 7/28. 10X showed up on schedule, were very cautious about not making a mess and proceeded to perform the work per the quote. (Note, I am not disclosing the actual quote amount).
Prior to leaving, I began writing the check for the work performed based on the written quote. At which time I was told the total was $X,XXX. This total was 65% more than what the written quote stated. When I asked what was going on, I was told materials were more expensive than they realized. Also note, the person that provided the quote and performed the work, was the same person - the owner.
I was more than willing to pay what was quoted but to increase the quote, after the work was done, by 65% is very unethical. I did not pay all of the increased cost but I did pay about 20% more. I paid the extra because I was EXTREMELY angry and felt we were being taken advantage of. I was extremely agitated and simply needed to get 10X out of the house before I got confrontational.
It is unfortunate this took place because having used 10X in the past and witnessing their work first hand, I had a laundry list of things I wanted to have done (flooring, wall removal, bathroom remodel, etc.). Unfortunately, I will not use them for these projects or give them an opportunity to bid these projects unless they make this situation right and refund the amount I was charged over the agreed upon estimate.
I own a business and I have provided quotes that were accidently too low but, whether I made $1 or $10,000, I stuck by my quotes.
This is an unfortunate situation. I think 10X does great work but if you are going to hire them for a large job, be cautious about unexpected, undiscussed cost increases. Your $10,000 bathroom job could end up being billed with an unexpected 65% increase.... read more
