EC Design Builds

I recently hired EC Design Builds Inc. for a significant project in my home, and I couldn’t be more impressed with the results. The project included removing a load-bearing wall, updating the entire property with low-voltage electrical systems, and a complete kitchen remodel. From start to finish, the team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and expertise.

The removal of the load-bearing wall was executed flawlessly, with no compromises to the structural integrity of the home. Their knowledge and skill in handling such a critical component of the project were truly commendable. The updated low-voltage electrical system has brought my property into the modern era, and the team ensured all wiring was neatly installed and fully functional.

The crown jewel of the project was the kitchen remodel. EC Design Builds delivered a space that not only meets my practical needs but exceeds all my expectations in terms of aesthetics and functionality. The craftsmanship is impeccable, and every detail was considered, from the layout to the finishes.

Throughout the entire process, communication was seamless. They kept me informed at every stage, addressed any questions promptly, and ensured the project stayed on schedule and within budget. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of their work.

I highly recommend EC Design Builds Inc. to anyone seeking a reliable, skilled, and detail-oriented team for their remodeling needs. They transformed my home into a space I am proud to show off, and I will definitely be using their services for future projects.

HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE: First, let's start with the timeline. My new commercial space required some floor work. Our plan was simple, we need 3 small rooms carpet/glue removal, and 1600 SQ ft of cement sanded with crack repairs and scores filled. We were told that they could "be in tonight as it'll only take a couple of hours to remove the carpet and the next day they can have it sanded and glue removed, with epoxy being poured on day 3."

We had discussed payment terms of 50% up front & 50% upon completion. His estimate was rife with errors, contradictory payment terms, vague terminology, and was addressed to a non-signatory of the organization. Which was intentional as he wanted to try and demand more money at random times through the project claiming late payments. Unfortunately for him, he very clearly put "day 3 of floor work" for a 3rd payment, which per his guidelines was the day epoxy would have been finished being poured. Of course, this never happened.

At 8:43 the next morning, which was the start date he promised. 10-11am window for arrival was provided via text.

8:43, he texted that he's on the road already. "I have 4 guys today and commercial wheel Diamond blade."

Needless to say, I waited until 8pm and they never showed up. He told me they were around the corner twice, getting lunch twice, at two different times, 4 hours or so apart. They also never showed. Instead, one guy showed up and asked when they were supposed to start demo, he had no idea, was not yet even contracted by the GC and was given the key. Out of suspicion, I sat around and waited trying to figure out what was going on. Soon after another guy comes and was told to leave the key outside in a bush (right downtown) for the contractors. Now I thought it was entirely necessary that I attend during all hours of this project.

Where is the diamond sander? He had rented the wrong machine, a tile remover, which can be used for glue but is not recommended as it can damage cement and it sure did, there are gaping holes all over the floor in my primary rooms that we now have to pay to have fixed.

Now he begins claiming we didn't pay him, even though his own software has invoiced records of payments received for over 50% of the cost (pictures above). With this came threats of extra fees, he would claim the other sub contractors demanded more money to do the work we already agreed upon, threatened to cancel people on site - which he actually did because I refused to pay an additional 35%, and for hidden fees of cracks filled, which were promised by his estimate. We were 5 days behind schedule, and not obligated to pay anything else until epoxy was poured. Plus, he hadn't even removed the carpet yet. It's now 8 days after the original start date and the carpet and glue is being removed by my wife and I.

After speaking with the subcontractors myself, who the GC claimed no showed us, they claimed the GC never paid them in full & told them we were behind on payment. Even though he had $6500 sent to him already. All together, they worked about 8 hours, a crew of 4 never showed - it was 1 guy doing most of the work himself and the GC never once came to the job site once he received his 50% deposit.

To reiterate, he would tell them he didn't receive the deposit and tell us that they didn't show up and that he had a new crew for the next day. I am sure you can do the math of what's going on here. I talked to both of the "no showing" crews, they both said he wouldn't pay or cancelled them.

Also, beware that he misrepresents being a licensed GC with the state of Texas and the only one in Austin, this is untrue, his GC license appears to be for California. I also noticed that his response to all of his negative reviews is that he's a new owner, but his social media claims he has owned it since long before the negative g-reviews.

Per TX State Law I have demanded proof that my funds remain in the authorized contractor bank account &
evidence of how the funds are being used. To this date I have not received proof.