The success of most building enhancement or renovation projects is dependent on realistic customer expectations relevant to what they can afford in a given period of time. Also if you go cheap, you will get what you've paid for and end up being unhappy.
Six months ago Delysia and I embarked on our home improvement by deciding to add a deck and awning to our home. We phoned three builders who specialise in decks and awnings and then waited. The first provider wanted to do the quote and assessment remotely, the other provider was too busy and said he would get back to us in a few days.
And then there was Chris Riley of Aussie Outdoor Living who we phoned, spoke to and within less than two hours was at our front door, very well presented, completely kitted out with an impressive heavy duty carrying case which contained a variety of building sample products.
Chris listened intently as we spoke, made notes, wandered outside our property, visualised what was possible and then carefully articulated how it would be achieved. It sounded wonderful, everything that we dreamt of and more; the biggest selling point was the aluminium deck that resembled a wooden deck! This was remarkable, no protruding nails or screws, no deck staining or on-going maintenance. While we loved all of this, all we could think of was “How much is this going to cost? We resisted talking about cost because at that stage, the project was still under consideration.
We then visited Chris's showroom where we were able to touch and feel the products. The displays were neat and professionally presented. Throughout this phase, there was no hard sell approach from Chris. The ideas and products were presented for our consideration.
Within a few days we made a decision, contacted Chris and received a quote. We were satisfied with the quote and the cost breakdown based on what we requested. Work commenced within a few days, with building artisans arriving on site neatly attired and expertly applying their craft.
Generally builders seem to have a work code of their own, arriving late, leaving rubbish strewn around without cleaning up etc. These building professionals were different; they arrived on time, respected our property, they were polite, cleaned up afterwards and neatly packed their materials away before leaving. This approach really impressed us. The excellent quality of their work was a reflection of their attitude; good, enthusiastic with an amazing attention to detail. It's been a long time since we've seen building professionals work with such pride as a team.
The entire project, which included the drawing up of plans, council submission, DA approval etc. was expertly handled by Chris Riley and his colleagues. We were kept informed at every step of the project and did very little except arranging payments at the end of each scheduled phase.
We are entirely satisfied with the work that Chris and his team delivered. We had a few friends around who commented how well the deck and awning looked and how sturdy it was erected, aligning and conforming to current building standards without compromise.
We have no hesitation in recommending Chris and his team to any prospective client considering practical outdoor home improvements professionally built for the long term.
Delysia & John Riffel