Shane G in Toronto

Following a drain leak in an upstairs bathroom, we had two different plumbers look at the issue. Both recommended the replacement of the drain plumbing in its entirety and hiring a contractor. We hired a contractor on the basis of a friend's recommendation, which included a strong recommendation for Viper Home Services, who worked with that contractor. Manny of Viper was great. His communication was clear, he responded in a timely fashion, and he took the time to explain the kind of work that needed doing. At no point was there any mystery about what kind of work we might be facing or what the cost might be. He replaced all drain plumbing in the upstairs bathroom, installed the tub and rough-in and supply plumbing as needed. He noted that our kitchen sink plumbing was faulty and not properly vented and addressed that. He replaced the old cast iron drain stack, and upon a video inspection, suggested replacing the stack elbow. We took him up on that job too and he removed the elbow (mm thin in some spots!) and poured the concrete around the drain stack. He also replaced a toilet gasket and replaced faulty laundry taps. All work seemed to be quality. All work was quick. His prices were reasonable. When one minor issue did pop up, he came back and fixed it within 24 hours. Based on his assessment of our plumbing, we have a couple of other projects that we will take on in the next couple of years (properly placed floor drains and a backflow valve). He will be our first choice. We've recommended him and his company to friends and will continue to do so. Note that the price above is approximate as some of the work was completed within the scope and billing of the general contractor leading the renovation.

Thales and WonderWoods were a pleasure to work with. We were unclear about exactly what we wanted but knew that the uneven and squeaky floors in our new old home had to go. We also had a look in mind. Thales worked with us to find the right product. Rather than pressing us to choose a certain product as other people providing quotes did, he took the time to find a product that worked for us in both appearance and budget. This involved substantial back and forth through email and text and a few visits with sample product that he gave us time to consider. We settled on a product that we liked in a price range that worked for us and we still admire the finished work a year later. We had the same experience with his replacement of the stair treads. He found a wood that matched, posts that we wanted, and he took the time to check to make sure it was the look and price that worked for us. His crew were very flexible and were able to work around our schedules to facilitate our move into the house. He and the crew were also very responsive to requests. When I requested that the wood take more time to acclimatize in our house, he rearranged his projects to make it happen. When there was a miscommunication about a railing, he fixed it the next day. When we had a post that was loose, he showed up shortly to fix it. When I asked his crew to pay more attention to certain details, they did so. He also honours his warranty. I contacted him several months after the job was completed to address minor issues and he responded within 24 hours.

Mr. Hopkins was prompt, friendly, and took the time to explain what he was doing. We had a couple of pot lights that were inexplicably inoperable in our new place. He came to investigate, found that it was due to them being strangely tied into a faulty outlet. In addition to replacing the outlet and a busted dimmer switch, he rewired them in more sensible fashion. I would call him again no question.