Between April 2015 and November 2016, we worked with Modular Home Additions through every stage of building a brand new home in North Toronto - starting in April 2015 with the planning, drawing, and permit process and continuing between December 2015 and November 2016 through the demolition and re-building of a brand new home.
Before getting into the details, I will say that we used Modular because they are a real business. They have a team assigned to each stage of the planning and building process and there is always someone knowledgeable to speak to. Their friendly receptionist Evelyn books appointments and always knows where the team is when you need them. Pamela in their billing department is always available for billing inquiries, which she explains with patience and care. Dmitry who guides you through the planning and finishing process is always available and he really knows his stuff. The entire team is accessible and responsive. If they are not at their desk when you call, they will call you back! If you've ever built a house or undertaken a renovation, you will know that responsiveness is key.
Back to the details. Dule, along with his team at Modular and all of the various sub-contractors assigned to our job were competent, professional and trustworthy. My husband and I overwhelmingly agree that if we ever do this again, we would work with Modular over and over again. Among the many positive qualities Modular brought to this process, the following are most noteworthy:
1. Transparent and trustworthy - they tell you like it is and they stick to their story. If they can do something, they will tell you and if they cannot, they will tell you that too. They never over-promised or over-committed. We felt comfortable, safe and secure even after we moved in to the unfinished home and they continued to work on the project. I have 2 young children who even carved the contractors' names into the fireplace before it was clad! They took the time to secure the site and to minimize the risk of theft.
2. Budget exactitude - Right from the start, Modular provided us a detailed quotation and breakdown of every step in the demolition/construction process. Modular never asked us for more money than they quoted us nor did they ever tell us something cost more than they originally quoted. When we did go over our original budget, it was because we chose to upgrade finishes beyond the initial quotation.
3. Friendly - building a new home is a LONG process. It can also be emotionally and mentally tiring. Dule, Dejan, Dmitry, and all of their staff and subcontractors met with us weekly at various stages throughout this process. They were always friendly, warm, and professional. Their team of sub-contractors were respectful, tidy, and talented.
4. Project management/timing - Modular uses "Basecamp", which is a well-known project management tool. Throughout the process, we posted, viewed and exchanged ideas and information so that the whole team was always "in the loop". As a result of excellent project management, we went from demolition to completion in just 10 months, which is an incredible feat for a new build.
We love our new home and would definitely work with Modular again in the future!
- Approximate cost of services:
- $0.00
- What could this company do to improve their services?
- Any advice to offer fellow homeowners facing a similar project?
- Company Response
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Thank you guy's from the bottom of our hearts.
This is one of the most detailed and "straight to the point" reviews that will help others determine what is important when you are deciding to go into the large renovation or building the new home.
Renovating or building the new home are, for most of us, THE largest and most stressful decisions, financially as well as mentally. Dealing with the contractors, subcontractors, inspectors, delays and unforeseen issues during the renovations or through the process of building new home are all taking a toll on our psyche as well our finances.
Having a knowledgeable partner down this unknown road is crucial.
Knowing what the things will cost, appreciating that changes will probably have the impact on the cost, some will end up as a credit, some will however add to the cost. Understanding that sometimes there will be issues and that not everything will be as you envisioned. Understanding that you are working with people and that people sometimes do make mistakes! Time lines are shifted, subs do not show on the dates they should, it is raining despite the prognoses of a great and sunny weather for a week!!!
All these can be seen as a stress inducing thing caused by your contractor! OR! As you guys did, accept this as a part of a journey and unavoidable part of putting together so many little pieces with so many people in the game. It is not easy and in order for the whole thing to work and to have a “happy ending” there is always a need for two parties with clear understanding of what to expect and what to provide or vice versa - what is expected and what will be provided.
Having the company like Modular, with so many projects behind, with the staff that is in the service business for so many years and project managers with in depth knowledge of all aspects of construction and willingness to help and be there for the clients is crucial in endeavours like this.
Thank you again for having the understanding of the process of building and being one of the clients that will be remembered as “The best” - the one that we pray for at these times when understanding and appreciating others is so scarce.Modular Home Additions
27 Bermondsey Rd,
Toronto, ON M4B 1Z7
416-759-4663
https://www.modular.ca/