Alex, the owner of Regal Garages, came out in August 2024 to talk about replacing our current pitched roof garage with a new, roof deck garage. As part of our conversation, we expressed concern about the security of our backyard during the demolition/construction process. We voiced the need to keep our dog and belongings in and strangers out. While not included in our contract, Alex agreed in writing to provide a fence, as a "courtesy". Our mistake was to not specify that it actually needed to be USED for its intended purpose. Instead, while "fencing" did show up, it was not connected to anything, if used at all. This resulted in our backyard being left wide open. Alex was repeatedly begged to correct this. His reply was that he's not in the security business. Because of this, we experience at least 2 separate thefts of property, not to mention our privacy being violated. Alex's response ... "Oh no. That's a bummer". Ultimately, Alex did give us a serviceable fence in mid-February, and while not locked, it at least serves as a deterrent, which was what we were requesting for 4+ months.
Next problem - the initial contract included "stairs", which turned out to be wood. Surprise - you want metal? That's a $2500 upcharge. You're looking for siding? Fine, but do you want the "additional option" of Hardyboard (fireproof siding) for $9600? No. Surprise - not optional ... it's mandatory (though he did knock down the price to $6800). Deck flooring options included? Only the cheap pavers from the big box stores. Anything else is an upcharge. Need to move Com Ed electrical wires? His estimate for HIS electrician was ~$1000. Nope. $1950. Need I go on??
Issue #3 ... either he's misogynistic or just didn't like me. I was called difficult to work with. So instead, Alex started contacting my husband. Then he became difficult too. Apparently it's us, though we had no issues with our bathroom and landscape contractors this year.
Finally, because we were fed up with the lack of security, and tired of being stolen from, we told Alex we expected to be reimbursed for the items taken. That's when the war started. He refused to take any responsibility, sent an invoice for the balance of the contract, and stated he would not complete the job until it's paid in full. Nothing like a little extortion.
As for the actual construction, the garage is ok. I believe it's sturdy. However, the concrete floor started cracking immediately, before the garage was ever used. Not surprisingly, they bear no responsibility for that per the contract. And more than a dozen of the roof deck pavers were so loose, if you stepped in the wrong spot, your foot would fall into a hole and quite possibly break an ankle. The remedy was to glue them down, which un-floats the floating floor and could be a problem in the future. The "repairs" took 2 additional visits because they didn't do an adequate job the first couple time. Zero stars for workmanship quality on the pavers.
I sent Alex 2 photos of the very simple railing I wanted. That's not what I got. I was first told that was what I asked for, and when I showed him the difference, he said it was close enough.
There are also sharp metal edges protruding from the corners where you enter/exit the roof deck. Alex personally took care of those to HIS satisfaction. When I told him they're still sharp and sent a photo of what happened when I swiped a piece of rag across one, which was a giant snag and hole in the cloth, his reply was "the job is done".
In the end, after being threatened with legal actions, a lien, etc, we decided to take the path of least resistance and comply with his childishness, just to final rid ourselves of having to deal with Alex. He fabricates stories, either accusing you of things you didn't say, or making up his own narrative. He doesn't care what you ask for - you get what you get. My husband describes him as "highly untrustworthy".
To sum up our experience, if still want to use Regal Garages, just be aware. You will be working with someone who does not listen, or care, when his client speaks. And if you think putting anything in writing means you're covered, the only things you'll get are excuses, attitude, and marginal workmanship at best.
And I'll give the city inspector the final word. Upon signoff on the permit on September 22, 2025 he said that the garage is "structurally sound but the work is sloppy and unfinished." read more