PROJECT SCOPE: Repair and repoint a masonry foundation wall. CAVALIER APPRAISAL: With minimal inspection, KB Masonry proposed to "rebuild the (distressed) wall from the ground up" for $3,200, including a $2,200 deposit. VAGUE CONTRACT: The KB Masonry contract's work description was highly generic. The following checkboxes were checked: "Waterproof Sealer," "Repointing," and "All masonry Work." PRICE TRAP: Work barely started when workers discovered a problem. The project cost increased from $3,200 to $25,000! HIGH PRESSURE: I was advised that catastrophic failure was imminent. KB Masonry claimed it was obligated to report me to city officials if I didn't immediately accept their $25,000 bid and repair the foundation at that very moment. If I declined, KB Masonry claimed, the city would revoke the occupancy permit for our home. We would be homeless, and my deposit would be forfeited. OUTCOME: I declined the inflated cost. A second contractor (Timo Services / Stonework) confirmed that a more extensive work scope was appropriate. Timo Services/Stone Work beautifully repaired and repointed the entire foundation, not just the distressed section, for $9,000. This is 1/3 KB Masonry's price! ARROGANCE: KB Masonry declined to refund any portion of my deposit, accepting no responsibility for their inept initial assessment or subsequent price gouging. KB Masonry did not honor their pledge of "100% Satisfaction". I do NOT recommend KB Masonry. read more