It was an auspicious beginning to the final stage of our small bath remodel. Tornell and his helper, Michael were very professional, hardworking and good communicators when questions arose. The job began on Monday morning with completion anticipated by Wednesday afternoon. Payment had largely been made upfront due to travel.
As Wed turned into Thur and trailed into Friday, we were doubtful the job would be completed even by Sunday. Complicating matters, Tornell made a decision to take on a second client, splitting Michael's time between both jobs. Poor judgement on Tornell's part. By Friday, 9pm, we were nowhere near completion.
Saturday morning, as I was occupied in another area of the house, Tornell made another bad decision. Without my knowledge, he and Michael quietly packed their tools and loaded all of their equipment into their truck. The last I saw of them was as they pulled out of my driveway, 6 days into a 3 day job with a complete mess left behind in the bath as well as the yard.
Incredulous, I first thought they had left for lunch...though they had never done that before. As the dread became reality, I saw my yard empty of equipment and my bath, a nightmare. Did they also leave with some of my possessions? Are they thieves as well as unethical business men? I've yet to determine. I am completely and utterly grieved, not just at the state of my project but at the ease at which Tornell discarded our trust and abandoned his work ethic in the blink of an eye.
In a day where ethics and honesty are less and less valued, I should not be surprised I suppose. Having built, remodeled and worked with countless contractors over the past 40 years, I can say this is a first. For Tornell, I suppose his word and his honor do not weigh heavily on his heart. For others he might engage in business, his lack of integrity should speak for itself. read more