Communication throughout the project was extremely poor. We were given access to an app that was supposed to provide updates, but it contained little to no useful information.
At the beginning of the process, we were told that a permit would not be required. We later learned that one was necessary, resulting in a significant delay and an unexpected permitting expense. Once the permit was obtained, we were told that we could proceed with clearing the land, which we did promptly. However, the project was delayed again because of internal miscommunication about whether the site had been cleared and was ready for the foundation work.
Because ours was considered a small job, the concrete contractor did not prioritize it, creating yet another delay. Although our permit was issued on March 20, construction did not begin until June 3.
We were also told that the building had been ordered when, in fact, it had not. Additionally, it was never clearly disclosed that Golden Rule would not be constructing the building and that the work would instead be completed by a contractor from North Carolina.
The entire process was unnecessarily stressful. It was also concerning to hear some of Golden Rule’s own contractors make negative comments about the company’s organization and back-office operations.
John Mullins made a genuine effort to improve our experience by providing good customer service, but he appeared to be limited in what he could do to resolve the larger issues.
We are pleased with the finished building; however, that appears to be primarily due to the work of the actual metal-building contractor rather than Golden Rule. Golden Rule essentially served as a middleman, which added delays and increased our costs without providing meaningful value. In hindsight, I wish we had worked directly with the metal-building company.
While the design team demonstrates unlimited competence, I would currently recommend GBR for the production of uncomplicated projects. There is high quality levels in the final product, However, achieving these levels of quality involves an extraordinary number of revisions to foundational elements of the build. These revisions are directly attributable to a lack of adequate communication with the subcontracted trades (e.g., ensuring access to most recent plans). Most of all, there is far too much reliance on the trades' own quality control, accompanied by a lack of GRB's timely oversight over the trades' work product.
Quality and follow up is outstanding. Price is a more than expected on painting. My best estimate is that GRB charges > $14 per square foot which seems excessive for the effort
Garry took care of me. I could trust him to look out for me; the project. Garry saved this job! (I would caution anyone to micromanage design staff and to be more involved than I was able to be.)
These guys are awesome in every way. Golden Rule Builders did a great job. The worksite was clean, they did excellent work, and I couldn't be happier with it.
Golden Rule clearly listened to me, the evidence being they delivered a high-quality bathroom, kitchen island, and flooring better than I could imagine. Even though we were a smaller project, we were treated as if we asked them to build us a 10,000 square foot home. They were respectful, skilled, knowledgeable and kind. Not only is their craftsmanship quality, but it is also individualized and lovely.
For the home build and basement work, we had a great experience from design to move in. But the experience has not been good so far on the latest project to install an underground conduit for future electric to our barn. The rest of my responses to this survey will reference the current sidewalk job only.
They are doing well overall, but a little more attention to details/communication would be great.
Golden Rule sticks to its mission to treat their customers the way they would like to be treated themselves. They provide an honest and reliable construction model - one you can depend on to be there for you over the years. They stand by the quality of their work, and if there any issues, they address them to their fullest ability. Reliability and honesty are their strengths, and hard to find in this industry.
Professional, knowledgeable, and friendly beginning to end
I will eagerly recommend GRB to anyone and everyone interested in construction projects. I will warn them to keep an eye on some of your sub-contractors, however, as they do not always share your passion for quality and integrity. You are by far not the cheapest, but if you want the job done right, with quality from a company with integrity, then there is no other option than GRB.
I am highly likely to recommend GRB to a friend. The level of detail shown in relation to our projects has been outstanding. GRB has been easy to work with. Our project manager, Brian, has ensured our satisfaction with our complex projects. We did not want to use a fly by night company, we wanted trusted members of our community working on our home. I felt confident using a company that has been in business for many, many years. I am so glad we made the investment in our home by using GRB.
Golden Rule Builders made it easy and we really enjoyed the process and were thrilled with the results. Garry did a great job understanding our needs and taking care of the little details that matter— like making sure our washer and dryer could be hooked up quickly during the renovation. We appreciated his constant communication. The quality of work by the trades (notably carpentry) was incredible.
These guys are real craftsmen -- in a world full of quick and dirty. They actually take pride in their work. I'm deeply impressed.
Employees Professionalism - Jerry and Roger were fantastic to work with. Kept us updated on the project and were flexible with us when we needed it! Great guys!
Recognize Excellence - Roger, just a great guys! Easy to work with, explained the process, gave excellent insight and suggestions on our building project, every phase of the project was seamless and the quality was of the highest standards.
We were disappointed with how communication was handled by the office, particularly regarding pricing transparency and the timeliness of responses. Pricing was often not clearly broken out or explained, which made it difficult for us to fully understand the costs and at times gave the impression that we may have been overcharged.
From the beginning, we discussed additional work we needed with our salesperson, with the understanding that we would either add it to the current project or create a new contract. However, due to the lack of communication and timely follow-up from the office, we eventually stopped asking about the additional work and decided we would either complete it ourselves or use another company if needed. The additional work we had hoped to discuss included roofing, siding, drywall and trim work throughout the house, as well as window and door replacements. Instead, the focus seemed to shift primarily to a kitchen remodel, and the pricing was high enough that we ultimately decided not to pursue any additional work with GRB.
The field team, however, was great to work with. They were very responsive and took the time to thoroughly explain all aspects of the project, answering our questions even outside of normal business hours at times. Matt McCarthy, Nick, Cody, and John were the main members of the field team we worked with, and all of them did an excellent job with communication, problem solving, and workmanship.
The staff at GRB responded to every question, comment or problem almost immediately. They were responsive to our needs. No matter the issue, nothing was too trivial for them to respond.
Building with GRB has really made life easier and more enjoyable. From design through construction, the GRB staff has been warm and supportive. The process of building is a challenge, but we could rely on GRB to help guide and get the job done. Most important is the warranty period. Rather than being left being on your own with your new house, the GRB team stands ready to assist from the smallest to the biggest details. If something needs to be corrected, they get it done.
They take pride in the work they do.
The whole process was honest and upfront and the team knows what they are doing. They were true to their word and schedule through the whole build.
Great communication, timely, friendly and professional.
Our project manager was not easy to work with. His communication was subpar. When asking questions we were treated as if we were an irritation. He was not on site 50% of the time. Many mistakes were made that caused serious delays and inconvenience from lack of communication and absence.
If I had to do this again I am not sure I would pay the extra money to use this company. They promised above and beyond service but we were constantly told how expensive and important other projects were. Maybe if we spent a few million dollars instead of one we would be treated better.
good people. knowledgeable and skilled. great to work with
Prompt,Professional,Precise. W3
We have repeatedly told our friends about how great our experience with GRB has been. Everyone has been friendly and easy to work with. We appreciated how willing they were to work with professionals that we brought from outside GRB into the project. When we started this project we liked our home and its location. Now we love coming home every day and never want to leave.