This company was started by Mr. Sweeney in the 60s as an odd-job/carpentry business as he…read moremoonlighted from his regular carpentry job. Used them many times for minor construction and jobs that did not require much forethought or pre-planning. Work was good, though a bit overpriced for the final result.
Fast-forward 15 years, and considered them for an addition on my home in Lumberton, near their office. Reviewed my desires for the job, the time frame I was working with, and the requirements I had for standard of work. This was, by far, the largest job I would have contracted with them for, appx. 3,400ft. sq. Was working with an architect, so the work hinged on the completion of proposal and plans by the architect.
Plans arrived on time, and met with Sweeney again. He had difficulty reading the plans, and offered that he could design the job for a lot less than any architect. Informed that I had the design I wanted, it was completed, and all he had to do was follow it. Then he replied that the job was too complex, and could not be done. Shared this with the architect, who is an experienced carpenter/cabinet maker himself, and received loud chuckles.
Anyway, I received his contract, and was thrown off by the cost. Had three other contractors bidding, and his was a full 50% higher than the next company. Told him this, and he decided to lower his price to just $250 over the next highest bidder. Strange. Wanted to keep money local, etc. and we had a "history", so I went with him. Should have trusted my gut.
Paid 35% up front to him, and noted, after a few weeks, that my check was cashed. No reply from the company regarding start date, that was rapidly approaching. Needed to know some particulars regarding where his trucks would park, use of bathroom for crew while house was unoccupied, etc. No returns on calls.
Began to get irritated, but figured they would still start on the contracted date. Called township, and found that permit had not been applied for, and work was originally contracted to begin following Monday. Nothing from his office, so I called again. Spoke with owner, said he'd "take care of it." Monday arrives, no show from Sweeney. Figured they were held up on something, but getting more concerned.
Three days later, full crew shows unexpectedly, and starts working on basic demolition while we were at work. I arrive at the house to find 2 guys in my kitchen, orange juice from my fridge in their hands, and no permits posted. Foreman was not there, so I called company to complain. Tossed them out. Decided that I would not work for a company that I hired. They work for me when I foot the bill.
Long story short, permits were not applied for, could not trust company any longer, and relieved them from the responsibility, which seemed to be too much for them. Suddenly got concerned calls from him about wanting "to do right". Sorry, Dudley, but I went with Canton builders in Moorestown, who did a fine job, completed on time, with no snags at all. The addition is perfect, and went smoothly. Architect and contractor worked together famously. I think Sweeney is passed his prime, wants to make a lot of money for less work. Not getting any more from me.
