Paver Patio Installation! Kicked off JOB! part 5

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  • čas přidán 19. 09. 2023
  • Welcome to Part 5 of our "Nightmare Remodel" series! In this episode, we embark on an exciting phase of our backyard transformation-the installation of a beautiful paver patio. Join us as we bring this dream outdoor space to life, step by step.
    In this video, you'll witness:
    🏡 Paver Patio Construction: Get an up-close look at the meticulous process of installing a paver patio, from preparing the base to laying the pavers and creating a stunning design.
    🧱 Expert Tips: Discover valuable tips and insights to ensure your own paver patio project is a success, from selecting the right materials to achieving a level, durable surface.
    🌟 Outdoor Oasis: Visualize the final result as we create an outdoor oasis that's perfect for relaxation, entertaining, and enjoying the great outdoors.
    As we progress through this "Nightmare Remodel" series, we're turning challenges into triumphs, and this episode is no exception. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast, a homeowner planning a similar project, or simply captivated by home improvement stories, this video is sure to inspire.
    Don't forget to subscribe, hit the notification bell, and give us a thumbs up if you found this video insightful. If you missed any earlier parts of the series, be sure to catch up.
    Part 1: • Nightmare Remodel | Th...
    Part 2: • Nightmare Remodel | Ho...
    part 3: • Stamped Concrete Wasn'...
    part 4: • We had to TEAR it DOWN...
    WEBSITE - www.odellcompletelandscape.com
    INSTAGRAM - / odellcompletelandscape
    FACEBOOK - / odellcompleteconcrete
    TIK TOK - / odellcompleteconcrete
  • Jak na to + styl

Komentáře • 1,4K

  • @Railgauge11
    @Railgauge11 Před 9 měsíci +341

    The fact that she asked you to eventually come back to the job after she found a replacement contractor tells you everything you need to know. It gives you more insight into her character, but more importantly, it should validate you and your team’s (obvious) high quality work, craftsmanship, and integrity. A shame she didn’t realize it in the first place. A learning experience and time to simply say “next.”

    • @OdellCompleteConcrete
      @OdellCompleteConcrete  Před 9 měsíci +36

      I concur
      Ty

    • @tamo9520
      @tamo9520 Před 9 měsíci +11

      This commenter stated exactly what I wanted to say except so much more concise! There is no way I would have gone back. You can't change your mind over and over again throughout a build! Talk, discuss, ask questions amd take the time to decide "BEFORE" materials are ordered and the plan (or blueprints) are put in place. Bottom line. If you aren't ready to commit to what you want, you aren't ready to have the work done.

    • @-Coaltrain
      @-Coaltrain Před 8 měsíci +14

      I would take her to court especially sence you have videos

    • @bradspring8332
      @bradspring8332 Před 8 měsíci +9

      @@-Coaltrain
      let me tell you. You want to stay out of court these days. You might as well play poker and go all in on your first hand without looking at your cards.

    • @shadyzz9549
      @shadyzz9549 Před 8 měsíci

      @@bradspring8332 You're insane. Inlt those who half-a** things get worked in court... this guy sounds like a very competent professional, even videoing his work...
      All he needs is written (email) evidence, WHICH EVERYONE SHOULD ET ANYHOW, to back up what he says happened and he'd walk away with an easy win.
      Sounds to me like you half-a** life and get worked by people because you're not smart enough to understand to ALWAYS COVER YOUR A**, NO MATTER WHAT.
      I've had ZERO problems in courts getting money from deadbeat clients on huge projects.
      Don't blame courts because you suck at life.

  • @scottm3130
    @scottm3130 Před 9 měsíci +181

    The work that you did do looks great. This customer is just one of those people who really does not know what she wants and you would never have been able to make her happy. Cannot believe she had the nerve to call you back. That tells you right there what kind of person she is. Put this job in the rear view mirror and keep moving forward.

    • @esexavo
      @esexavo Před 9 měsíci +28

      She didn't want to pay, many use this as a strategy

    • @JEK
      @JEK Před 9 měsíci

      In other words, she's a woman...

    • @SandBoxJohn
      @SandBoxJohn Před 9 měsíci

      @@esexavo Simple solution with a customer that has not paid for work that has been done is to file a construction lean.

    • @xaphan8581
      @xaphan8581 Před 9 měsíci +4

      The pattern isn’t that great though. Like there’s one spot where you have like 8 of the same size paver next to eachother making this long seem that catches your eye. When I did them I always made a rule to not have any long straight lines in the pavers. But that’s from someone who installed these every day for years. I still think the customer is a scumbag

    • @JT-rc7vx
      @JT-rc7vx Před 8 měsíci +2

      THIS is the poster child for why I got out of "handyman" Construction all those years ago

  • @zachcombs6271
    @zachcombs6271 Před 9 měsíci +42

    This is top tier craftsmanship. Tell Karen to go inside. Great work!

  • @richardearl9711
    @richardearl9711 Před 8 měsíci +68

    Always document the customers' requirements and have them sign off before starting the job (with the understanding that changes can be made), and then document any changes and have them signed off as well as you proceed, be sure the customer understands that changes will incur an extra charge (it doesn't have to be much), this will encourage them to have a good think about what they want first.

    • @bobdylan7120
      @bobdylan7120 Před 7 měsíci +4

      It's true for pretty much any industry that's delivering to a customer.
      I worked in the aerospace industry, designing major modifications for customer aircraft. They all changed their minds and wanted changes to the original contracted design (we called it requirements creep) and we amended the contract for every single one of them, no matter how minor.

    • @weidles
      @weidles Před 7 měsíci

      No, it's not the customer's requirement, but the City code that will dictate the job you do. Seem like you are not licensed or know the city codes.

    • @richardearl9711
      @richardearl9711 Před 7 měsíci +10

      @@weidles So what you are saying is that a customer can only have things that are covered by the City code? Any Code requirements should be discussed with the customer and included as part of the documented requirements, sadly I assumed that any licensed professional would know to do that. Seems like you are not a professional.

    • @PSUQDPICHQIEIWC
      @PSUQDPICHQIEIWC Před 6 měsíci +2

      People like this rarely accept being told that they're responsible for their own decisions. They behave this way because they've been exploiting others their whole life. Keeping things well documented is good practice to cover your ass, but you can expect conflict either way, and it's safe to say that they'll never be satisfied.

    • @nicholas672
      @nicholas672 Před 6 měsíci +1

      That may work. However, there are some customers who simply will not care and will not pay. Or, will look for any reason to pay. Knowing that it is more work, more cost, and not worth the effort for a small business owner to try to recover the other 1/2, 1/3 or whatever percentage of the payment. They are essentially running a scam on the contractor. Moreover, all the documentation in the world never guarantees a win in small claims court. On top of that, concrete is a very misunderstood and debatable material. For example, how it’s prepared, delivered, installed, and even maintained once it’s installed. Sometimes smallest thing can change the judges decision. There are so many variables once it gets to that point. Every small business contractor runs into these scammers, eventually. Curious,are you a small concrete business owner?

  • @torchup
    @torchup Před 9 měsíci +114

    As a fellow contractor, I can tell that your eager personality and your great skills to do it right along with your enjoyment of pleasing your customer are a perfect match for any landscape designer and most any homeowner. She is the occasional homeowner that will never be happy with her decisions even when she blamed you, the best contractor she started with, and she should have begged you to return rather than just text you like you're going to return to her nightmare ways. You deserve better treatment and her type will always lose out and remain an insufferable but a small percentage amongst all the overwhelmingly grateful homeowners that see their homes magically transformed by true craftsmen like you and your crew. 😇

    • @chrisbarnard5221
      @chrisbarnard5221 Před 9 měsíci +8

      Great job buddy! You should be proud of your work. That customer is a clown. Imagine what it's like to be that ladies husband or child...😂😅😢😢

    • @boobyhatch7897
      @boobyhatch7897 Před 9 měsíci

      I second this description
      Mr Odell does great work in many places
      Hello from Laubach Hesse

    • @stewardslandscape
      @stewardslandscape Před 8 měsíci +1

      "The customer is always right" is a farce.

    • @mtr633
      @mtr633 Před 7 měsíci

      Sounds like a royal pain, sometimes not worth it when you gotta deal with people like

  • @ElBarbon89
    @ElBarbon89 Před 9 měsíci +138

    She was planning to screw someone from the start, I’ve had these type of customers. My hat off to you for putting your situation out for everyone to see. Definitely says a lot about you and your company.

    • @OdellCompleteConcrete
      @OdellCompleteConcrete  Před 9 měsíci +2

      Ty

    • @arresthillary9502
      @arresthillary9502 Před 7 měsíci +1

      @@OdellCompleteConcrete you do great work. dont let someone like this bruise your confidence. we all want to do a good job and sometimes screwballs like this get us down.
      keep on keeping on!!!

    • @alansmith4044
      @alansmith4044 Před měsícem

      @@OdellCompleteConcrete I agree with the customer I didn’t like the color at all

  • @anythingbootneck
    @anythingbootneck Před 6 měsíci +8

    Tim, you had more patience than I would have had with this horrible woman. Yes, you did the right thing in not going back. Well done!👍🏻

  • @sergioblanco4504
    @sergioblanco4504 Před 9 měsíci +8

    I congratulate you for not going back! That lady obviously has big issues. That type of person will never be satisfied, no matter how well you do it. Your dad was right with his judgement from the start. Great job with everything you did here!

  • @shawnboland4193
    @shawnboland4193 Před 9 měsíci +44

    Your patience and professionalism is admirable! Keep up the great work!

  • @natej6671
    @natej6671 Před 9 měsíci +29

    i could just see other contractors coming up to the site and seeing the quality of work you did and saying "Damn this is a tough act to follow". I really appreciate you sharing this series. As a tradesman we like doing what we're good at, but customers like this cause us to step out of our tradesman roll and forces us to be a better businessman. You did the right thing by not going back because she never would have been happy and months after the job is done she'll still be finding fault. Something tells me that she's single.

  • @carp360
    @carp360 Před 2 měsíci +1

    It is easier to deal with a cow than people. You guys are doing amazing work.

  • @robb4357
    @robb4357 Před 7 měsíci +14

    In my 27 years as a contractor I am happy to say I’ve only had to deal with 3 customers like this. I learned very quickly to vet my potential customers, made sure they understood the entire scope of each and every project, had them sign a contract and get 20% of the cost of the project up front and if they didn’t like those terms they were free to find another contractor.

    • @tomb816
      @tomb816 Před 6 měsíci +1

      You're not wrong. Gotta vet those customers. I actually walked away from this huge job, years ago, because the guy and his wife were so flaky. The guy would say exactly what he wanted and the wife would say something like "yeah, but, instead, I want it like this", which would be the exact opposite of the husbands idea. I just knew she was going to be a headache. I politely said this job isn't for me and excused myself.
      A couple months later, I happened to be working at the house directly across the street. I was there for a little over a month (huge deck and kitchen remodel job). While I was there, she had masons building a stone wall, along the front, and one that wrapped around the car parking area. She watched these guys every single day. A week before I finished my job, I noticed orange spray paint in the masonry joints. She went to Home Depot, bought orange surveyor paint, and sprayed every single joint she didn't like. It was more than half of all the walls. She marked joints that were at the bottom of the wall!
      These guys were doing this job the entire time we were across the street. She watched them every single day. Yet, she waited , almost until they were done, to tell them it wasn't good enough. Let me tell you, they did a great job. It was beautiful stonework and I actually took their card and used them on jobs, after this. Two days before we were done, across the street, they were tearing down the stonewalls, to start over.
      Gotta vet those clients...

    • @ventura80503
      @ventura80503 Před 3 měsíci

      Ask for 100% of the contract.

  • @davidrivera4169
    @davidrivera4169 Před 9 měsíci +17

    You and your crew did a great job here. I agree with you and I would not have gone back either.

    • @OdellCompleteConcrete
      @OdellCompleteConcrete  Před 9 měsíci +5

      Yeah me thoughts exactly

    • @seephor
      @seephor Před 9 měsíci +1

      These type of people need to learn a lesson the hard way. If you came back out, she would never learn.

    • @JEK
      @JEK Před 9 měsíci

      Peace out, can't negotiate with stupid

    • @kevinarmstrong864
      @kevinarmstrong864 Před 9 měsíci +2

      Nice work I wouldn't have been as accommodating working for someone who doesn't know but thinks they knowing changes the job constantly makes it really tough .I charge for the estimate when I look at any jobs I do probably 500ish for that size of project because it's probably 5 hrs of your time to price all the material and labor. Video he walk through with the customer so you have a record. Like when she didn't want the cuts on the drains pull out your phone tel her your reason and if she doesn't want the cuts put in and it cracks its her problem. That has saved me many times when in a couple of days you get a complaint and they say I never said that or approved that. last year that saved me from a 50grand re do on a surface finish they chose then had second thoughts on the next day .I fix my mistakes but not yours always cover your ass 😂

  • @waltermccue1495
    @waltermccue1495 Před 9 měsíci +5

    Not every customer needs to be a customer. As a business owner, sometimes you have to cut your losses and fire a customer. It sucks but it's a good learning experience for both parties. You guys do awesome quality work and it shows. Take care.

  • @user-dw9mk6yy9c
    @user-dw9mk6yy9c Před 9 měsíci +6

    One of the most important things I’ve learned running a businesses is recognizing the red flags and steering well clear of potential problem customers. Learnt the hard way that it doesn’t matter how accommodating you are to the customers needs or how good a job you do some customers are just out to try and rip you off!

  • @SpufiMan1
    @SpufiMan1 Před 9 měsíci +28

    Identifying this before it happens is a Huge skill. How did your Dad know this one would be a problem? Great Respect to you and team, true professionals, Great Job Guys !

    • @GlobalistJuice
      @GlobalistJuice Před 9 měsíci +11

      IMO It takes years of seeing it and experiencing it, because it's not always apparent from the get-go, but after time, your newly formed instincts will let you know within a few minutes talking with a potential customer, exactly who to stay away from! Forty-five years as a painting contractor I formed good instincts and I assume his Dad did too.

    • @Turbrewski
      @Turbrewski Před 8 měsíci +2

      Same for me as well. You just know.

    • @TheErockaustin
      @TheErockaustin Před 8 měsíci +4

      I have a house painting business. I've had these customers before, and have gotten better at identifying them. The first rule of thumb, any customer that tries beating me down on price, I avoid. I no longer offer discounts or lower my price for someone.... 9 times out of 10, those end up being the problem jobs. And the cheapest customers are ALWAYS the ones that can't be pleased. And of course, they always want more discounts because they're "not happy".
      My contracts are now very detailed. I have them confirm their selections by email before we start: paint type, sheen, color, etc. If there is some detail where the customer tells me to do "whatever you think looks good", I do a sample for them to confirm. Sometimes they are too hung up on irrelevant details and I know they'll nitpick everything. I've also had clients tell me during an estimate appointment above their bad experiences with other contractors. I always pay attention to every word they say, especially anything that's a red flag.
      Often, I get a gut feeling for certain customers that tells me to avoid a job. In those cases I'll price them really high or tell them I can't get to their jobs for weeks. And some I've just passed on altogether.

    • @cindystucker4834
      @cindystucker4834 Před 6 měsíci

      Dad’s just know, go with it!

  • @aarongrabowski3775
    @aarongrabowski3775 Před 9 měsíci +11

    Tim, you handled the whole situation with that job perfectly. As soon as you see a homeowner come outside a lot and nit pick the smallest things, you know the rest of that job is just not going to go well.

  • @chichitex1252
    @chichitex1252 Před 9 měsíci +12

    I believe this woman was abusive. I’m glad you cut your losses and moved on. There is no telling how many more stunts she would have pulled and cost you even more in a longer term. She should be ashamed, but I bet she’s not.
    You guys always do such beautiful, meticulous work and I’m looking forward to next jobs or series! You’re a good person and y’all do great work!❤❤❤

  • @InLaymansTermsPlease
    @InLaymansTermsPlease Před 8 měsíci +4

    One thing I learned early and the hard way was to document everything. Make sure there is a drawing showing what they want including all materials that will be used and if they make changes before you start make sure the changes are noted on the drawings and signed by them and make sure you reference the drawings in your bid and let them know anything they want to change will require you to give them a change order for the extra cost and you need them to sign the change. It's can sometimes be a pain the ass because of the extra paperwork but it will save your ass.
    I got used to telling homeowners I could change whatever they wanted as long as their willing to pay for the change. Fortunately we don't have to deal with homeowners anymore. All we do is commercial and we're usually dealing with a Project Manager that understands the process.

  • @jmconcretecoloradosprings
    @jmconcretecoloradosprings Před 9 měsíci +2

    I remember my first bad review. A lady said she found someone 1/3 as expensive. I go by a year later and the work never got done but i still had a bad review. Some people are just never satisfied and thats their nature. No way to change that. Great work through the whole series.

  • @douglaspierce8480
    @douglaspierce8480 Před 9 měsíci +16

    When I did this kind of work, I recorded all of my discussions with the customer on materials and work plans, so there were no later issues with the project.

    • @JEK
      @JEK Před 9 měsíci

      it's all you can do, gather as much evidence as possible in case of a small claims court

  • @NickManCuso59
    @NickManCuso59 Před 9 měsíci +14

    I feel sorry for you and your crew. I think you guy's did a great job ! As far as the home owner goes I would have told her just what I thought of her. About your pay I would take her to small claims court to recover what is owed to you. About going back to finish the job I would have considered it if she signed another contract with a significant price increase to be paid in full when the work was completed.

  • @craigkenyon1780
    @craigkenyon1780 Před 9 měsíci +1

    Timmy you absolutely did the right thing because she shouldn't have betrayed you in order to then learn that she respected your work more than the others because you were more patient accommodating and generous than most contractors would have ever been with her!, and on top of it she undermined everything she choose and took advantage of you because she had no clue what she actually liked or what an a+crew with ten out 5 star reputation's work look like! sorry it took her every bit of it to understand that, also the fact that you have like6 friends from high school that want to work with you is incredible and speaks volumes to your character and the kind of person you are don't ever let a client like that make you question yourself or your team at all!

  • @Thelawncarenut
    @Thelawncarenut Před 7 měsíci +9

    I watched the entire series and I think this goes back to the first episode where you said your Dad knew back when you did the estimate that she would be a problem. If you learned that from him as you went throught this job then I'd say it was worth it and will save you a lot of issues in the future. Either way, I think your work looks awesome!

  • @denjhill
    @denjhill Před 9 měsíci +7

    Wow! No matter how you look at it this is a huge job, and the results show that you beyond reasonable expectations. I think I would have gotten fed up with it and just walked away. Your piece of mind is important. Beautiful work!

  • @pc9366
    @pc9366 Před 9 měsíci +3

    Looks outstanding. You cut your losses from an unreasonable customer, well done 👍

  • @jasonstarr6419
    @jasonstarr6419 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Some of the hardest lessons I learned when running my construction company were a) never do anything based on verbal agreements - get everything in writing, and b) anytime a customer wants to make a change from the previously agreed process, you write up a change order. c) Then, when doing a change order, there is an automatic charge. Back in the day, it was supposed to be $75.00. Today, it might be a couple hundred, PLUS, if you are removing a feature (sometimes they do this as a cost cutting measure), d) you lower the cost to the customer, BUT, you KEEP in whatever your profit would have been from providing that feature. AND, e) you ADD the cost of whatever it is they are asking for you to do. From all that, though, get it ALL in writing!!

  • @tylerk.7947
    @tylerk.7947 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Yeah you did the right thing. This lady is crazy! The patio looks great. I definitely wouldnt go back to work for her ever again.

  • @blkstang83
    @blkstang83 Před 9 měsíci +17

    First, I think you guys did an outstanding job. Second, I have had experience with working with contractors to have work done at our house. I know it can be difficult to convey your thoughts and vision on a project. That’s why it’s important as the homeowner to have your thoughts together prior to having work done and if you have secondary thoughts, make sure that you convey them in a timely manner.
    I had some gentlemen that did work for me several times. I have a neighbor behind me that saw the work I was having done so she decided to employ these gentlemen. Well, she kept doing like this lady that you did the work for. At a point I got pulled into the dispute and tried to meditate the situation. In the end, she did the exact same thing that this lady did. When she got someone else to finish the work, she wasn’t satisfied and it cost her more money. She tried to get the original crew back, buy them spoke to me and informed me that they wouldn’t complete the job.
    She was very upset and constantly complaining about it to me, I just told her that it was her fault.
    I still use them and she gives them dirty looks when they are at my house.
    Again, get work.

  • @JonnyDIY
    @JonnyDIY Před 9 měsíci +7

    Great job team 💕👏👍 smart on you for not returning, would have brought more headaches and high blood pressure. Pavers came out killer

  • @brianmceneny5011
    @brianmceneny5011 Před 8 měsíci +1

    I wouldn't have put up with her as long as you did. That was a huge remodel and a lot of work. Kudos to you for being as patient as you were.

    • @jonny-b4954
      @jonny-b4954 Před 7 měsíci

      I likely would have bailed after the stamped concrete, honestly. Have done so for less before haha. I just can't tolerate people not standing by their "final decisions." Wasting my time, messing up my schedule, making me feel bad and pity them (I've had that) etc.

  • @beverleygregory
    @beverleygregory Před 8 měsíci

    I owned a very successful painting company in Ontario canada dealing with high end clients, who by the way over many years of working with them became friends also, Im retired now and fortunately only ever had 2 bad experiences with clients screwing me over, you did the right thing to back off going back to try to fix whatever this unappreciative client wanted after hiring someone else who also didnt satisfy her, this is just what goes on throughout a contractors working business career, being able to deal with these problems are all part of it , and as the years pass you become professional in the way you deal with them, I was always in awe at the stone masons and concrete guys like yourself how a build would look amazing after completion with thier experience and expertise , I enjoy watching thank you also reminds me of being around all the great young guys

  • @NegronJL1
    @NegronJL1 Před 9 měsíci +4

    Man, this looks like a job well done. Bravo!!
    Take these as lessons learned to weed out the clients you don’t want.

  • @alexbattenberg5638
    @alexbattenberg5638 Před 9 měsíci +4

    Absolutely, you go back and finish the job overall, and make her pay ... and some! It's business, so no time for hurt feelings, my friend.

  • @dwightsdiy213
    @dwightsdiy213 Před 9 měsíci +1

    Dude when i tell you i was watching this series like a block buster film. She was just looking for a reason to not pay or for you to loose your cool. But good job not letting her get to you. Thank you for sharing the world needs to see this. I'm happy you and your team did not go back. I hate that you loss money on this job but kept your dignity in tact and gain a whole lot of respect.

  • @sheilabundren2037
    @sheilabundren2037 Před 9 měsíci +2

    This lady is nuts. You did a fabulous job.

  • @whiterose686
    @whiterose686 Před 9 měsíci +5

    Love your work! Would have been super happy with this backyard. Wish you were local to me!!

  • @stephenwalinski193
    @stephenwalinski193 Před 9 měsíci +8

    Looks great to me what y’all did. Ya can’t please everyone so don’t let it bother you too much. You guys do great work from what I can tell!

  • @toddseely8371
    @toddseely8371 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Great workmanship from all your guys. I learned from my dad to identify customers who can't or don't make up their mind to walk away. This is just as important as your physical work you have spent years learning. Or you raise your price to compensate.

  • @srv1122
    @srv1122 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Wow I would pay you in a minute for that work.. Solid Quality Work.. Some people are just miserable and complain their whole life.. You guys killed it!

  • @christophercruz7932
    @christophercruz7932 Před 9 měsíci +3

    You did the right thing! Enjoy your videos. Can’t wait for the next one!

  • @MaxGoddur
    @MaxGoddur Před 9 měsíci +3

    Spot on you did more than I would have done. Looking forward to seeing your next project.

  • @leemotie7441
    @leemotie7441 Před 8 měsíci

    Some ppl are just plane difficult. They don’t know how hard it is to do physical work outdoors. I did the right thing by completing ur part of the job and did not so back to do the rest. U did a wonderful job.

  • @mikebennett938
    @mikebennett938 Před 9 měsíci +6

    Well done to you, I absolutely love what you have done here. It is unfortunate that some people like to blame others for their own inability to decide what they want. Great work guys, HUGE balls for showing the failures as well as the successes. Not that I would call this a failure, this work is stunning!

  • @myrrhavm
    @myrrhavm Před 9 měsíci +9

    What my nephew does and it’s built into his contracts is place liens on the customers homes or businesses that way he never loses out on compensation as well as any change orders apply additional fees on the customers. Says that’s the only way to handle any job and it dissuades them from being like this lady.

  • @michaelfield3190
    @michaelfield3190 Před 9 měsíci +1

    Fantastic job. I buy a newspaper every day just to hope to see her in the obituary sometime.

  • @bradspring8332
    @bradspring8332 Před 8 měsíci

    I was an appliance repairman from my 20's to my 60's. I feel your frustration with customers. If you ever come to Portland Oregon we can have coffee and share experiences. I will even pay for your coffee. To my eye you did everything correct and did a very professional job. I am kind of a diy guy. done pavers, concrete work, built barns and remodeled my own home. Im 73 now and have had 3 wives. They have all my money now and now I live in an RV at my sisters property with my 102 year old father. WWII vet.
    Now I get to put all my skills on my sisters property improving many years of neglect she and her husband can no longer do because age has caught up with them.
    You do an excellent job. I would have gone back to complete the job only for because I am that way. Pride would have made me finish it for myself not the customer.

  • @tii2015
    @tii2015 Před 9 měsíci +7

    I watched this entire series. indecisive homeowner complicates things & slows the process. Being called back to finish after she told you "give me two weeks", (and she called other contractors), tells me that they sensed the same thing you did in the beginning. You probably should have texted her back and said something like, " I've started another project & won't be available or flat out said, "Thanks, but no thanks". That's an acceptable response. Regarding the non payment for services/material rendered... If you have a signed contract with change orders (approved) AND you did what you said, I'd put a Mechanics Lein on her house so fast! Not sure what the laws allow in your area, but that's what we are permitted to do in our area. Either way Tim, Odell did great! kcuf that hctib!

  • @denniscahill8753
    @denniscahill8753 Před 9 měsíci +3

    Job looks great. wish we could have seen it completed.

    • @OdellCompleteConcrete
      @OdellCompleteConcrete  Před 9 měsíci +1

      Yeah I wanted it to be a full backyard remodel but sadly didn’t get the chance

  • @robertsnyder6982
    @robertsnyder6982 Před 4 měsíci

    You did the correct thing. And you have great courage and confidence to share this video. With customers like this you might try having her sign off with a change order or at least initials on a letter that you give her stating that she has agreed to something. I know that COs don't really help in the end if the customer does not like something but if she sued you at least you would have something in writing. You guys do outstanding work.

  • @cranborile
    @cranborile Před 8 měsíci

    Cold & grey just like that lovely lady! U guys did a fantastic job 👍

  • @vinceangelo8184
    @vinceangelo8184 Před 9 měsíci +11

    Love the in depth explanations on how to set the drainage grade! Thank you! Love your channel!

    • @ppomm
      @ppomm Před 9 měsíci

      Yes that was really interesting. In drain pipes usually talk 1/8 or 1/4 drop per foot .. I had to do the math on my phone to figure on 1% is pretty much 1/8 and 2% is 1/4. All of us do the math a little different but great so see reaching same conclusion. These guys are hard workers!

  • @tylerbarrett6652
    @tylerbarrett6652 Před 9 měsíci +5

    Thanks for sharing this. I guess I'd be more cautious when my Dad warns me off of a job... and now you have first hand experience with the sort of customer that raised your Dad's red flags. This is the type of thing where even hindsight is NOT 20/20... seriously. From this experience I would have learned to change a few business practices - like a hard deadline on making changes without incurring additional cost... and maybe some other protections to mitigate the risks involved. It used to be practical to charge half up front and the other half when finished... but for something this involved you almost have to do it like a construction loan with payments completed as the stages of the work are completed... maybe some clause in the deal that limits your not-yet-reimbursed investment to a clear dollar amount... weekly billing... I don't know. It should just be a simple thing in a good faith agreement - but we'll all eventually run into these people. My grandma would have said "Some people have to kick even when they are playing football (soccer)"... and it took me years to understand that saying. Basically people see this stuff as a game... and it's no fun for them unless they are the one doing all the kicking. Anyway... I thought you did great in all that you did... and you hung in there pretty good. I think you were PROBABLY right to bail when she replaced you. The one other thing... find and develop a relationship with a good business lawyer... because I would have taken legal action as soon as I learned she brought another contractor in. Then again, my Dad was a lawyer... so that was easy for me. In this case he would have suggested some sort of mediation and kept going until he had a lein on the property, a wage garnishment, or full payment (provided I was not negligent).

  • @RichardSmith-ir7rp
    @RichardSmith-ir7rp Před 5 měsíci

    This is why I don't do residential work anymore. I think mentioned in one of your other videos that you're going to run into these types of customers. Keep your head up. You guys do great work.

  • @scottghost1
    @scottghost1 Před 7 měsíci +1

    Hi mate, I love watching you and your team work on this project. I was a contractor here in Melbourne, Australia for 20+ years and I ran into a few of these clients over the journey. I got burned a few times but learnt to have everything in writing and have regular stage payments so you are not exposed financially. Unfortunately some folks don’t fully understand or appreciate what it takes to deliver a quality job. It is best to be on the front foot communicating with the client and if there are issues then tell them you are not sure if you are the right contractor for this job and simply walk. Jobs like this can really dent a team’s confidence…you don’t need it. Keep up the great work brother👍🏻

  • @mordysalem1498
    @mordysalem1498 Před 9 měsíci +4

    You guys do beautiful work and are super professional! I believe you Must get her to sign on decisions & get her on recording when she’s making her decisions.. gotta have that extra insurance against clients like these. Especially with the amount of overhead you have on this job.

    • @OdellCompleteConcrete
      @OdellCompleteConcrete  Před 9 měsíci +3

      Good idea

    • @fordford21007
      @fordford21007 Před 9 měsíci +1

      Yes indeed, always make a record of everything. Any change no matter how small must be signed off on in the contract and of course charged appropriately.

  • @markadams4316
    @markadams4316 Před 9 měsíci +3

    Take it as a learning experience and move on. I would hire you in a second to have a patio built like this. It looks fantastic!!

  • @leroygreen1877
    @leroygreen1877 Před 9 měsíci

    Always listen to your Dad. He told you to "walk" and you didn't listen. lol looks good all things considered!

  • @armchairgeneralissimo
    @armchairgeneralissimo Před 7 měsíci

    You 100% made the right call by not going back to finish the job. With the way things are at the moment I'm sure you guys have work coming out of your ears as it is so might as well work for someone who will appreciate what you do.

  • @capone_rd_809
    @capone_rd_809 Před 9 měsíci +20

    This build series is a perfect example of listen to your elders, your dad TOLD you not to take the job, but you pushed on. This lady played you listen to what you said, YOU LOST MONEY. That was her goal from the beginning to not pay you the agreed upon price she got work done at a discount, and you lost time and money I hope you learned your lesson and, remember father knows best.

  • @clkgroup6367
    @clkgroup6367 Před 9 měsíci +3

    Tim, you bent over backwards for this ungrateful customer. You and your crew do excellent work. I hope you slapped a lien on her house for the money owed.

  • @josephgraham1065
    @josephgraham1065 Před 9 měsíci +1

    No way I would have gone back.... I would see her in small claims court... You guys did a great job.

  • @deborahgoslin5858
    @deborahgoslin5858 Před 8 měsíci

    I would NOT go back ! The work you did do was a really good job !

  • @theone4042
    @theone4042 Před 9 měsíci +4

    You could see "Karen" in the video multiple times if you stop. She doesn't look like a happy person. Yard is beautiful btw. And NO - do not go back. She's proven herself unreliable

  • @paceauto5382
    @paceauto5382 Před 9 měsíci +3

    “ Typical difficult & combative female customer “ ‼️💯🤦🏽‍♂️

  • @Horizontreecare
    @Horizontreecare Před 7 měsíci

    I brought out Roman, his son and nephew. It makes the process easier and faster. Jess my friend

  • @thekerm8470
    @thekerm8470 Před 8 měsíci

    I see quality work being performed. I would NOT have gone back to her. You made the right call.

  • @omahabigbill2789
    @omahabigbill2789 Před 8 měsíci

    You lost money, but you kept your dignity! I probably would have never given her the chance to let me go in the first place. Job looks great!

  • @glsmith3072
    @glsmith3072 Před 8 měsíci

    Sweety- Peace of mind is priceless! Some people can never be pleased. They love drama and disagreement. They don't care to learn, understand, agree or compromise about things...esp the things that are not controllable. Only two...2 options for sand. Choose one lady and move on. Gosh! You were correct in staying away. She chose you to initially leave. And did it in an under-handed way. Plus, you don't know what those other contractors did while they were there. So its best never to pick up someone elses crap. She made the choice so she needs to live with the consequences. Its like my Granny usta say "Baby There is nothing like bought sense". She made her purchase with her choices including those New contractors. And I bet they were no where near patient or kind in dealing with her shenanigans as you were. She is going to learn that Good contractors are really true craftsmen and they have kindness, integrity and take pride in their work. These types of people are really HARD to find. A Good contractor is hard to find. Its Her loss not yours. I say don't go back over there. EVERRrrrrrrrr. 😂 Don't view this as a loss of money... view it as a gain...a blessing in which you gained peace of mind, experience and publicity. May the True GOD continue to bless you and yours. Just keep doing what y'all do. Btw, The patio is totally beautiful!! 😍 I love it and will take two please...👍❤😂 TFS.

  • @geraldblankenberg1226
    @geraldblankenberg1226 Před 4 měsíci

    From a perfectionist myself, Great job! (Cape Town,South Africa)

  • @mrsupert3562
    @mrsupert3562 Před 8 měsíci

    Man your patience get a bold A++,you are a decent human beign.Thats all I can say.

  • @johnhargis2458
    @johnhargis2458 Před 8 měsíci +1

    First Class Job

  • @jimjogger306
    @jimjogger306 Před 6 měsíci

    Theres many difficults working with customers, Mental health problems, Dementia, Egos and people that just want money reduction. Being a good judge of character and being in a financial position to be able to pick and choose the jobs you do is a huge bonus.

  • @bathgate2198
    @bathgate2198 Před 8 měsíci

    Hello from Scotland. You were making a great job. Some people will never be happy. They watch those home improvement programs and think that is the real world. You were more patient than I could ever be. Keep up the great work.

  • @michaelhegarty6977
    @michaelhegarty6977 Před 8 měsíci

    I think Tim that both yrself and your crew are elite skilled tradesmen,who gave this client over and above what you had too.Your work is perfection in its finest and i think you are a martyr for putting up with her for so long.

  • @willahelmpowers4835
    @willahelmpowers4835 Před 9 měsíci +1

    I appreciate the extra info on your calculations, as well as sharing about situations like with this customer and job. It looked nice to me, don't blame you wanting to just move on after what happened.

  • @stevensimmons998
    @stevensimmons998 Před 9 měsíci

    Your guys work is 2nd to none! The customer should be ashamed of herself! This job was amazing!

  • @craigcostley4310
    @craigcostley4310 Před 8 měsíci

    She was just chasing it for free. The fact she asked you to come back shows how good she is

  • @W1LLB0
    @W1LLB0 Před 9 měsíci

    Thanks for sharing! Back yourself. 100% right call in my opinion. Once bitten twice shy!

  • @pen2199
    @pen2199 Před 7 měsíci +1

    Your very patient, if it was me she'd have been looking up at the underside of her patio

  • @caroledavis-lh5to
    @caroledavis-lh5to Před 9 měsíci

    Love the pattern. The color of the pavers would not of been my personal choice. However, this is what the home owner wanted. You can’t always please all of the people all of the time.

  • @berg8970
    @berg8970 Před 8 měsíci +2

    Every contractor has gone through this type of nightmare customer. You did far more than I ever would have. I still remember one spastic customer I had when I first started out on my own. This lady was constantly changing the scope of the job. I couldn't wait to be done with her. She did refer me to some of her friends in the meantime, and she even gave me a $500 bonus for her being so flaky with me. About a month later, she called me again wanting more work done, but I never responded back, some things just aren't worth the money.

  • @shaun5944
    @shaun5944 Před 9 měsíci

    People like this we can do without Tim. It's hard enough doing the work. Well done for not going back. Stage payments all the way. The way she was with you was absolutely disgraceful
    Keep going brother 💪👍🇬🇧

  • @R900DZ
    @R900DZ Před 9 měsíci +1

    Super professional handling of the situation. You guys did great work, she’s unreasonable. Good job keeping your cool and moving on

  • @benninger123
    @benninger123 Před 7 měsíci

    I loved what u did , I wish I had the money to do something like that. You cannot be even thinking that it wasn't up to snuff , that was amazing . The transformation wow. See I'm the guy that if I wanted a change because I wasn't tickled with the look n something , I would pay you to make that change . I would never expect somebody to loose money on a job especially if I'm the one asking for these changes. People that try and mooch there way out of things and makes issues just to try and save some money and don't care whether the person makes any money or not . Those types of people should be gathered up and made to live in certain areas and that's it.

  • @eddogg805
    @eddogg805 Před 9 měsíci

    Everything you guys did was on point...
    Your a better man than me...I would of walked away a long time ago...
    Cut my losses

  • @tomklitsch6638
    @tomklitsch6638 Před 7 měsíci

    I think the job you did was exceptional. I too would have told her to "Pound Sand".

  • @michaelmacleod4713
    @michaelmacleod4713 Před 7 měsíci

    You deserve a bonus for work of this quality. 🇬🇧👌🏼

  • @kingalphadogg
    @kingalphadogg Před 8 měsíci

    Good for you, man! I would not have gone back. Clients like these are nothing but a headache. This is brilliant work. A lot of integrity here. Well done!!

  • @jim34w3
    @jim34w3 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Beautiful job, love it. I would have said sure I'll come back, but money up front first and no changes. Period and only on your time schedule.

  • @DD2DL
    @DD2DL Před 9 měsíci

    Mind changers make doing projects TOUGH!

  • @deepredstate4414
    @deepredstate4414 Před 6 měsíci

    No worries. You guys are awesome. Keep up the great details and info on how to do jobs!

  • @houstontowguy
    @houstontowguy Před 5 měsíci

    You did the right thing, I wouldn’t have gone back either. Your family does high end work, it’s just sad she don’t appreciate it.

  • @flexibleknot
    @flexibleknot Před 6 měsíci

    Nightmare client. The work looks beautiful, so precise!

  • @andymcnab2.0
    @andymcnab2.0 Před 8 měsíci +2

    Yous guys did an amazing job, it was perfect from start to almost finish. That customer from the offset had buyers regrets awful to put up with people like that no matter how much you bend over they won't be happy til your backs broke.

  • @jeremyjenewein918
    @jeremyjenewein918 Před 9 měsíci +1

    thank you for posting the entire saga, this was on its way to being such an awesome back yard

  • @bindig1
    @bindig1 Před 9 měsíci

    Wow. That is just beautiful. 1st class

  • @stevemarquez9628
    @stevemarquez9628 Před 8 měsíci

    I've enjoyed your videos and see you as one of the best. Your customer is really just crazy, no matter how you call it. No surprise she ran off the other contractors.

  • @bondubasher
    @bondubasher Před 9 měsíci

    She had nothing but a discussing attitude for the excellent work you did there. And you are so right about her, she is just the sort of person who would never be satisfied. Sorry you lost money on this one mate but your work and work ethic is top class, no doubt about it. I would hire you in a heartbeat!!

  • @dawnclark1702
    @dawnclark1702 Před 9 měsíci

    You did the right thing. I would not have gone back. The pavers look great.