Never hire him. Unprofessional.
Mr. Garcia was contracted on May 16, 2025, for a kitchen remodel project including cabinets, plumbing, and electrical work. I paid him $9,500 as part of an agreed flat rate contract of $14,000. Despite this, the project remains largely incomplete.
Mr. Garcia has only shown up to work approximately three days over the past 50+ days. When questioned, he claimed that I had given him 'indefinite time' to complete the work. This is a misrepresentation. I only ever expressed that I preferred quality over rushing; I never waived timely completion. In fact, I have followed up with him multiple times, requesting a realistic timeline and commitment, which he failed to provide.
Additionally, though the contract was for a flat rate, he repeatedly charged me separately for materials--despite the fact that materials were not excluded in the flat-rate agreement and I never agreed to a cost-plus model.
I estimate that only around $1,500 worth of work has been completed. I have asked for either completion of the project or a refund of the unearned portion, which amounts to at least $8,000. He has not cooperated, and his communications have been vague or dismissive. Most recently, he said he 'needs some mental space' and is 'off until Monday,' with no follow-through. Now, he confirmed to me that he is no longer interested to complete the project and he is not going to refund the money. When he needs money, he was waiting for 2 hrs outside my home when I am busy in meetings, confirming that he will deliver the project and taking the cheques with a smile. In the end, I felt taken advantage of. read more