Encounter with a horrible contractor

Engaged a direct contractor and should have recognise the red flags right from start.

Slow response (lack of interest in my job), poor subpar floor protection work (just lay the cupboards on the floor without tapping them) causing cement residue on floor, bad attitude from in-house painter who spoilt my storeroom door and argued with me. Very rude china foreman who told me to change to a smaller washing machine when they did the standpipe height wrong and gave a thinner pipe which cause issue in putting drain hose into the pipe. the China plumbers are not familiar with hdb houses and can install the washing machine tap at wrong height.

Cause cracks on the top of my door frame and peeling which luckily I had the before picture as proof of evidence.

The moment they put out IG ads I knew they are seeking new business. I had a contractor done for my previous house before and not so bad.

The only saving grace is I took out alot of items and did it myself, thus pushing the project along based on my timeline. They even dragged till the last day to clear my house of debris.

Avoid this company at all cost!!

4/19 Edited to

Hiring a contractor can be a daunting process, especially when you face unexpected challenges like slow communication and low-quality work. From my experience, one of the most crucial steps is thorough background research before signing any agreement. Check online reviews, ask for references, and even visit past projects if possible. Another important aspect is setting clear expectations and documenting everything in writing, including timelines, materials used, and payment terms. This helps prevent misunderstandings and provides proof if disputes arise. Protecting your home during renovation is often overlooked by contractors. For example, merely placing cupboards on floors without proper floor protection can cause permanent damage such as cement residue or scratches. Insist on professional-grade protective materials and supervision. Communication with workers on site matters just as much as with the contractor. In my case, language barriers and unfamiliarity with local housing norms led to improper installations and damage. When foreign workers are involved, consider having someone knowledgeable on-site to oversee work and clarify instructions. If something goes wrong, take detailed photos before and after work to have evidence for claims. This proved valuable for me when cracks and peeling appeared around door frames. Ultimately, your involvement as a homeowner can make a big difference. Handling minor tasks yourself or closely supervising progress helps keep the project on track. Also, be wary of contractors aggressively advertising on platforms like Instagram right after a poor job—it may indicate a focus on quantity over quality. Remember, avoiding a bad contractor means staying vigilant, well-informed, and proactive. Sharing experiences like mine helps others make wiser decisions and achieve smoother renovation journeys.