Drain dilemma
COMPLAINT: Ruth Williams, Seattle
"Compass Asphalt Paving resurfaced a concrete driveway and carport. They showed up on time and worked steadily, but they ignored important details. Instead of neatly raising the asphalt 2 inches where the drain and oil tank valve are, they left a valley for the drain and stuck a wooden patch over the valve. Fortunately, when the oil company came to refill, there was another contractor present who was able to cut it open. There's also an area that wasn't sloped properly, so I always get a mud puddle when it rains. Despite their promises, they never returned to take care of things they didn't do correctly."
DESIRED RESOLUTION: "I'd like them to grade the area that doesn't drain properly, correctly replace the lid for the oil tank valve, and elevate the drain by about 2 inches and grade appropriately around it."
STATUS: Penalty box
Pay problems
COMPLAINT: Carol McLaughlin, Seattle
"Case Remodeling remodeled my kitchen and bathroom. Apparently they don't pay their subcontractors. I have a subcontractor ready to put a lien on my property because he hasn't been paid by the general contractor. I'm also disappointed with the work they actually performed. Their corporate office hasn't been at all helpful."
DESIRED RESOLUTION: "There's a $1,500 balance on my account, but I had to pay their subcontracted electrician $1,782. I don't want any more to do with Case, and I certainly don't want them in my home. I'd like Case to close my account, and I'll forgive them the $282 I've overpaid."
STATUS: Penalty box