* See bottom of page for customer comments *
Frequently asked questions about projects:
Do you offer a design service?
Yes, we do offer some design services. We can help with kitchen and bathroom designs along with storage solutions and custom cabinetry. These drawings can include 3-D renderings to help visualize the outcome.
What happens if we change our minds on materials or the scope of a project after we sign a contract?
For in home services we use weekly time and material billings which allows us to easily make changes through the course of the project, and keep you updated on costs. We realize that changes are a natural process in the world of remodels and some things don't show themselves until the project is underway. We do our best to navigate the process as quickly and efficiently as possible. It is possible there may be a re-stock fee on items we have to return. Some specialty items that are special orders can not be returned.
How does a payment schedule work?
For in home services we bill on a weekly basis where you will receive copies of all material invoices and subcontractor invoices showing the cost markups shown in the contract. Along with this you will also receive copies of the carpenters time cards relating to work on your project. Payments are due at time of delivery of weekly invoices with final payment due at the completion of your project.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Yes we are licensed by the state of Washington and by the city of Bellingham. Our WA State contractors license number is 2NDSTCI940JA. We are bonded and insured through Rice insurance. Always Check with Labor and Industries on the status of someone working on your home.
Why is it important to use a licensed, bonded and insured contractor?
The law requires complete disclosure of all work that you have had done on your home when you resell. You may be required to do work over again that has been done without permits or inspections. Non-disclosure can lead to civil action being taken against you. Also, any unpaid workers or material suppliers can put a lien on your home if they don't get paid. With unlicensed contractors you are responsible for the medical and time loss costs of workers injured while working on your project.
How do we check on the status of a builder or contractor?
In Washington a check on a builder or contractor can be done through Labor and Industries. You can check if someone's license, insurance, and bond are current as well as any summons or complaints that were filed. You can call a local branch or click on the following link: https://lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/contractors/hiring-a-contractor/verify-contractor-tradesperson-business
***Reference List with full names and phone numbers are available with estimates***
"We could not be more pleased with our remodeling project. It is better than I envisioned. I particularly appreciated suggestions and creative solutions put forth by the whole team. Also, the willingness of everyone from 2nd story Construction to go the extra mile. Thank you for a very pleasant remodeling experience." Pam and Eric S.
"I would use 2nd Story Construction again in a heartbeat. Their work is of the highest quality, their integrity is absolute. They are not the cheapest, and you may, like I did, have to wait a few months for them to become available. But the best do not come cheaply, and quality work is not done overnight." Steve K.
"You guys do wonderful work, were always polite, respectful, and even tolerated our hectic lifestyle." Diana J
" I don't know that we could have had a better experience. Thank you all so much for the wonderful new part of our home." Lisa and Ray D.
"The work was brilliant, and we are delighted with the results. You have wonderful guys, and it was a pleasure to have them here not only because they are fine craftspeople but also for the opportunity of good conversation. You can be sure we shall call upon you for any future remodeling projects." David N.
"We are exceptionally pleased with all phases of the project and the final result. Professional in all aspects and high quality. A project to be proud of." Bob E.
"The project was educational and enjoyable from beginning to end." Don and Sue M.
"Very professional workmanship and very friendly staff. We are very happy with the job." Brian and Carla P.
"You are all so nice to work with! Thank you so much." Patricia E.
"We have already referred you to several friends and acquaintances. We were very impressed with the outcome and process of our major projects this year. Keep up the good work!" George and Beth S.
"Thank you so much for the beautiful work you did on my house. I really appreciate the attention to detail and the quality of work you do." Renee R.
"Great Work! It was a pleasure to have the guys around." John and Jodi M.
"You listened and actually heard me. I liked the way the project is layed out on paper; very helpful to a beginner. You had good practical suggestions and respected my budget. Your crew is skillfully creative, patient, and good humored. And Tidy!" Corrine S.
"We are extremely pleased with all work that has been done. Everyone was very helpful. It's okay to have the "young one" (Jeff) do the work; He has done all of ours and and has done a beautiful job!" Margaret R.
"I appreciate both the high ethical standards and the high quality of workmanship demonstrated by 2nd Story Construction." Kathleen L.
"Having the new window in my front room is working out better than I expected. The workmanship is perfect." Grace C.
"We could not have asked for an easier person to work with than Jim. He was knowledgeable, helpful, good ideas and suggestions, patient with the dog, and very accommodating. Our special thanks to him." Phil and Julie H.
"I don't believe that one always gets what one pays for, but I've come to believe that every time I try to save money, it costs me money. In this case, I chose a recommended contractor, whose bid was cheap, but he ruined some of the expensive material and made a wrong installation that cost me about $500.00. He finally walked off the job, because he couldn't do it. I wish I had turned to 2nd Story Construction in the beginning, it would have saved me time and money." Ann H.
"Jim is an excellent worker, very neat and cleaning up every little bit of debris as he goes, instead of leaving a mess until he's completely done. Very good personality and gets along with everybody, even very understanding with older confused seniors. If all your employees are like him, you have an excellent crew." Pauline N.
"There is such a thing as painless remodeling. Gordon, Jim, Jeff, and Scott are the team that can make it that way. You will miss them when they are gone; I do." Larry and Virginia W.
"I am very pleased with the bathroom. You have a very professional group and they do good work. I will remember you all in the future." Polly G.
"We enjoyed and appreciated working with you all. Everyone was very considerate, highly professional, and just fun to have around." Joan B.
"Thanks for the great work on the kitchen remodel. We are now looking forward to doing the bathrooms." Bob and Julie A.
"Your staff is outstanding to work with. They have a wonderful attention to detail and are very conscientious." Trish B.
"Great job, I will enjoy referring people to you." Dan and Anne R.
"It was a joy to have Jeff here. His consideration and meticulous work will be remembered gratefully." Evelyn M.
"We have zero complaints. We are very happy with the project. Thank you for your patience and all your help." Scott and Heather H.