SAQ (“should ask” questions)
The “Frequently Asked Questions” are not always the right questions to ask. I’ve put together some “Should Ask” Questions. You should also take some time and prepare a list of your own questions. If a contractor is not prepared to answer you questions, he or she may not be the right person for your project.
I have been a woodworker and finish carpenter for more than 15 years. I have built over 500 staircases. I also spent 3 years as a residential construction superintendent, so I know what is inside the walls as well.
Click to view details - CONTRACTORS LICENSE # B825847
Click to view “Certificate of Liability Insurance”
No. On most jobs, I do all of my own work from structural work and woodwork through finishing. I take care of every last detail Including drywall and paint touch up. I am a “complete” woodworker. This means I have developed my own skills so that I don’t have to hand off parts of my job to others. I can maintain control of the entire project and guarantee you will not find higher quality or better customer service with any other contractor. When I do use help, It is always the same guy, my friend Kevin D. He is a finisher with nearly 30 years experience in wood finishing. He is a licensed contractor and carries his own liability insurance.
Click to view details (bonding info) - CONTRACTORS LICENSE # B825847
Yes. I also do all of my own estimating. I will not send out a salesman to sell to you . I always send my best guy (ME). We’ll work out the details then I’ll build you a beautiful staircase.
Photos are a great way to start the process. I can often provide a n accurate quote from a set of photos. There are many visual clues for measuring. You can email photos to me at kelleypinson@kpinsonstairs.com or text them to me @ 951-795-5139. make sure you include your name and some details regarding the project. measurements are not necessary, but they don’t hurt either.
I have honored bids as old as 2 years. unless there is a significant jump in the price of materials there is not reason not to honor an old proposal. I will not put you under pressure to sign by putting a deadline on a deal.
I am usually booked for 6-12 weeks @ any given time. If you are fairly sure you’d like to begin the process with me, you can lock in a date in my schedule with a 5% deposit. If you change your mind before your proposal is accepted and signed, your deposit is completely refundable.
You will have no physical responsibilities. You will have done your part in making decisions and preparing yourself mentally for a significant interruption in your routine. I will take care of everything, especially protecting your home and your belongings from mess and damage.
I am responsible for keeping you happy with me from start to the last drop of touch up paint. That is “all inclusive” responsibility
I go to great lengths to contain my mess. I’ll isolate the project from the rest of your home to increasing degrees as the project progresses. I’ll clean up daily and when all the plastic and masking come down at the end you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how minimal the mess is.
10% to schedule the job, 20% additional when materials are substantially delivered (usually day 1), final payment due upon completion (see next SAQ).
You will let me know that. In general, if I am happy with my work you will be happy.
For the most part my prices are in line with others although I feel that price is the only thing that can be held in comparison with other contractors. My work and Ethics are incomparable and tend to cost a bit more.
In some instances it is a very viable option. I believe it is a matter of skill. In some cases, health concerns mandate pre-finishing as the course of action.
Rarely. Once in a while I will employ the help of my friend Kevin D, a very fine woodworker and finisher with decades of experience. He is also a licensed contractor and carries his own liability insurance.