This review reflects my personal experience with Michael Baker and Woodgrain Construction.
I hired Michael Baker and Woodgrain Construction to complete a major remodel of my home after being told the project would take approximately 6-8 weeks, with an additional 2 weeks for approved changes to the scope of work.
While I was traveling internationally, I continued making weekly payments in good faith based on repeated assurances that the project was progressing according to schedule. When I returned, I found the project significantly behind the timeline that had been represented. Although demolition had been completed, many major portions of the remodel--including the master bathroom, kitchen, ceilings, and finish work--remained incomplete.
After reviewing the work completed compared to the payments made, I believe I had paid substantially more than the value of the work that had been completed. I attempted to resolve the matter by meeting with Michael, providing written notice of my concerns, requesting a revised construction schedule, a recovery plan, payment accounting, licensing and insurance documentation, and establishing reasonable completion milestones.
Following those discussions, work on my project ceased. I have been unable to resolve the matter to my satisfaction and have retained legal counsel to assist with the dispute. I am now having to arrange for additional labor to complete the project and minimize further delays.
If you are considering hiring this company, my recommendation based on my experience is to:
Have a detailed written contract that clearly defines the scope of work.
Tie all payments to completed milestones rather than advance weekly payments.
Verify licensing and insurance before work begins.
Document the project with dated photographs throughout construction.
Keep all communications in writing.
Request regular written project schedules and progress updates. read more
