RJDLM completed a 50 sqm two storey extension in July 2023. The project extended an 1936 detached house and came with a relatively complicated roof and window design to the upper level.
RJDLM were one of a number of companies who provided a proposal for the project and from the outset there were clear differences in the approach of James and the team. I was provided with a detailed, clear budget, and the time was taken to run through the proposal in detail. This was very different from the “indicative” costs other companies seemed to wish to work with. This clarity with numbers continued throughout the project with any amendments discussed, priced and confirmed prior to work starting. There were no surprises when the project closed, the quoted price was the final price. Staged billing was clear and fair as the project progressed, payment was never requested prior to an agreed milestone being met. There were no demands for advances over the initial deposit. It is also worth mentioning that the fair pricing continued with any additions or amendments I requested, there was never a sense that I was being given high prices on extra items.
All of the team that RJDLM placed on the project, regardless of trade, were clearly professional and not looking to cut corners. If problems were encountered during construction the team made sure to include me in the solution and were creative in their endeavours. The site was well maintained and kept clean and tidy through the build, safety was paramount.
Due to the post pandemic problems in supplies and time, the project did run late, but I was always kept informed of progress. It would be impossible for any project of this scale to run without differences of opinion between myself and RJDLM, but where there were minor disagreements, they were handled extremely well, and always in a polite and professional manner, I was never left unhappy with the outcome.
I have waited a number of months to write this review as many issues only come to light as work settles, and we start living in the space. I am happy to say that there were only extremely minor points raised once the space was occupied, and RJDLM dealt with them promptly and without any fuss. Anything that came to light was never more than would be expected once a space starts being used.
Whilst I feel that some elements of the planning we could have approached differently, I am happy to give a five star review due to the commitment to both do a good job and keep the customer happy. I also cannot put enough emphasis on the detail they provide in the quotes and billing, this clarity builds a lot of trust between contractor and client and should not be undervalued when choosing the right builder for the project.
I will be calling James and the team next time I need some work done.