Real interesting situation (IMHO)… Last Spring I get a call from a couple that was referred to me by an architect friend. They have a “cottage” on about the most beautiful spot on the shore you can imagine. Private cove, right on the water etc etc. Basically they wanted it renovated in and out. Lots of issues, including all kinds of community restrictions (no work after June 15th, etc etc). Bldg had to be jacked up, “foundation” (part of which was just a big rock) rebuilt, lots of structural repairs, new siding, windows, gut the interior etc etc. The jacking and structural work was more than a bit beyond my means at that point. I really wanted the job, had me licking my lips but I thought about it for several days and then just leveled with them and turned it down.
Cut to two weeks ago… Apparently the reno turned into a scrape off (except for one wall, required by the association). They said that the exterior was just being finished and they wanted to talk to me about the interior. So we met this morning. Evidentally there were problems with the framing, as well as weather issues, issues with the windows (both wrong sizes ordered and manufacturer problems), you name it, it went wrong. They told me that looking back, they thought I was smart to turn it down, apparently it has been a horror story.
In the meeting they gave me a 20 page specification list from my friend. Obviously 99% was just AIA boilerplate, and it contained things like plumb, level and square to 1 part in 1000, specs for sanding, specs for allowable gaps, specs for patching, specs for specs etc etc. I slid it back and said…listen, I’d be doing you a disservice if I quote this job strictly adhering to the specs. We’re not building the space shuttle, you want a professionally built, properly detailed house you can be proud of that will last you, right? I’m going to suggest that if I bid on the job I provide you a scope of work that would detail what I believe is realistic and professional. Apparently they agreed.
So… Sunday I’m going back to look the job site over and see. I’ll keep ya’all posted.
PaulB
Edited 3/9/2007 6:23 pm ET by PaulBinCT
Replies
Paul, I recall your posts about this job a year or so ago.
Now admit it, your head is glowing 'cause you made a right decision.................thank God that wasn't my mess!!
Sounds like it could turn into a good bit of work for you.
Eric
[email protected]
WHICH content will be free, of course; WHICH content will require registration; but WHICH content will be available only to members of FineHomebuilding.com.???
I'm hoping Eric... I've thought about this job often wondering if I did the right thing by passing on it. Nice to be right (but even a stopped clock is twice a day ;) )
I haven't seen that particular AIA spec list but I bet a good craftsman could meet or exceed those specs without a problem. It does sound extensive and maybe it could be a hassle, but what if you trimmed it down? Go thru it, strike all of the items that you think are ridiculous, excessive, or do not apply, and then offer them your edited version. Sit down and go thru the items you strike and talk about what you would do instead. People are reasonable, they want a good person committed to doing a quality job and following thru... they don't care if there are a few green M&Ms in the big candy bowl backstage.
Nice waterfront like that makes for a great jobsite. For several months I had my bench and saw station set up with a gorgeous view over a channel to a couple of small islands with all sorts of neat marine traffic going by. Sometimes I would forget to keep working. One day the Coast Guard came by and put on a show for a few hours, dropping their rescue swimmers in the water and hoisting them up on litters. I say set your own terms and go for it.
1 part in a 1000 over 8' is 3/32", but it sure sounds a lot closer than +-1/8"
SamT
Anyone who doesn't take truth seriously in small matters cannot be trusted in large ones either. [Einstein] Tks, BossHogg.
I actually crunched the numbers and came up with the same thought Sam, but looking at 20 pages of it was enough to make my head spin. Anyway, I'm optimistic the details can be resolved as long as I can make the numbers work.
Do yourself at least one favor...Talk to the other contractor. The one they no longer have working for them...
Sometimes all it's about is just a good bowl of soup.
..and a sammich
20 pages of it was enough to make my head spin
Mount dartboard on motor.
Throw dart at spinning wheel.
Factor quote by number.
Spinning is good.SamT
Anyone who doesn't take truth seriously in small matters cannot be trusted in large ones either. [Einstein] Tks, BossHogg.
Paul, Some sage words of advice by Luka there.. The "bad" contractor may have a completely different story from theirs.
Also, it wouldn't be a bad idea for you to read through the "potentially bad clients" thread in this same folder." If I were a carpenter"
I agree Mark, whether I'm able to speak with him or not. Believe me, I've had my share of clients from hell...
Way cool, Paul - good luck!