We contracted with RLS Construction to complete the transition between our kitchen and dining area, repair some outdoor dry-rot issues, install some windows, and remodel our master bathroom.
The RLS bid was one of the higher bids we received, but based on past experience this isn't always a bad thing. We knew we could work with Bob Stubblefield after just a few interactions. We reviewed his work in his personal portfolio which he presented to us, and we scanned his Yelp reviews along with the Yelp reviews of other companies that provided bids.
Approachability 5/5
I contacted Bob; he got back to me promptly within a couple of hours and was ready to schedule a bid that day. Upon arrival, he was respectful, clear about mutual expectations, and patient with our questions. Bob's affability and quiet confidence put us at ease throughout the remodel. Other contractors we took bids from instilled no confidence, were unable to respond within a reasonable time, or had an off-putting, arrogant demeanor that would never work for us. We had a friendly, professional and respectful engagement with Bob throughout the project, and his staff reflected the same attitude. I'm now confident that I know a good contractor in the future.
Communication 4/5
With the exception of a couple days where we weren't clear who or what was scheduled, Bob and his crew were good communicators. Bob got back to us pretty quick - always within 48 hours. I never really texted him with a major crisis, but the times I needed an answer he didn't leave me hanging. This is helpful when you are wandering around a place like Floor and Décor trying to figure out the difference between types of schluter trim or floor tile or how much grout to purchase.
Bob's protégé, Jake, and Steve, his experienced tile specialist, were also good communicators. Multiple times they double checked with us before making a crucial decision, and they also offered great advice. With rapport established, we trusted each other. Trust goes a long way when people come disrupt the regular routine of your home. Again, the only flaw was that sometimes we didn't know who or when someone was coming, or we found out they were coming at the last second.
Work Ethic 5/5
RLS workers and subcontractors arrived on time and worked steadily. "Clean up is part of the job" and Bob's crew cleaned up daily before departing. Also, they always had organized work spaces. People who are being paid (a lot) for their time spend less of it looking for misplaced items when they are organized. By the end of each day tools and materials were secured again and ready to be accessed the next morning. Messes were kept to a minimum, drop cloths were secured, and dust, loose pieces of cut wood, wire and other debris was always swept and cleared. This was VERY important to us, and was done without being asked. We weren't stepping on loose screws, nails or staples. Additionally, Bob's workers were on task; we didn't notice anyone standing around, pretending to look busy or messing with their phone. Even Zeke, the low-man apprentice was always busy cleaning up, moving debris, painting, or learning something. About the only mishap was that somebody cleaned out some spackle or something out on the grass and it turned all white and crusty, but it washed out with the hose; the area is completely back to normal now. At any job screw-ups happen - but they shouldn't happen often.
Work Quality 5/5
You ever notice someone rushing a job and cutting corners so they can move on to the next job, and they don't take the time to think or get things right? That didn't happen here. At no time did Bob dump some inexperienced guy on us. For the main job, our bathroom, he brought in an expert, Steve, who was patient, strategic, orderly and creative. Not only did Steve bust his butt from start to finish, he absolutely knew what he was doing and he plotted his job out step by step. The other indispensable team member was Jake. Jake is young and multi-skilled - he is like Bob's utility man. These two fixed minor issues that came up without being asked; if we noticed something nitpicky, they didn't get aggravated - they just sorted it. Bob sorted stuff out himself too. He checked in on the job regularly and made sure things went right- if they weren't, he made sure they were corrected even if he had to do it himself.
Follow Up 5/5
So far few follow ups. There were some switches that needed to be to code and we had to wait for those, and there is a slight shower adjustment. In my estimation, RLS Construction adheres to the old John Wooden quote, "if you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?" RLS Construction completed the work we agreed to, and have addressed the few minor issues so far. A month has passed with no major issues; however, if we do have a major issue, I am confident they will fix it.
Overall Score 19/20
Our experience was excellent. We highly recommend RLS Construction. read more