Diamond Contracting

In the fall of 2010, we embarked on a journey to renovate our condo. We live in a 40-​year-​old high rise, and the last time a reno had been done was when the previous owners moved in some 35 years prior (well, they had done some work themselves, but nothing professional, or even to code).
We ended up going with Diamond Contracting, whom we found through the BBB (A+ rating with no complaints in the past five years — not just no resolved complaints, no complaints. Period.). Though Diamond did not give us the lowest bid, we chose to go with them because we were impressed with the thoroughness and professionalism of owner Sheldon Ens. His inspection prior to giving us the estimate was, by far, the most thorough. He checked places and pointed out things that others had missed. And it did not feel as if he were trying to get more money from us. The things he pointed out were necessary. He could not give us an estimate without talking with his sub-​contractors, especially the electrician. It was the electrician who made us aware of the limitations of our old building and the changes in code. As I said, Diamond did not give us the lowest bid, nor did they give us the highest bid. They were right in the middle. More importantly, the estimate was accurate! We were only a tiny bit over budget, and everything we spent over the estimate was because of things we had added since our original request. How many contractors come in right on budget?
Sheldon was understanding of our desire to save money. He didn’t try to talk us into unnecessary upgrades, and even affirmed our decision to avoid certain upgrades, saying that they were not appropriate to the age of the building and we could easily «price ourselves out of the market» by getting too fancy. He did not object to installing IKEA cabinets, and he supported our doing some of the work (i.e. painting) ourselves.
Brian, our project supervisor, was fantastic, regularly keeping us updated and answering what were likely silly questions with patience. And his work is amazing and beautiful. He added finishing touches that I wouldn’t have thought of but that add so much to the end result. I enjoyed working with the various subcontractors. All but one were responsive and reliable.
Finally, our building manager said that he has never worked with a crew as professional as the crew we brought in and that our guys left the common areas in better shape than when they first went through. He asked for several of Sheldon’s cards, and I know he has recommended Diamond to other owners in our building. He said it was a joy to work with them.
Overall, I highly recommend Sheldon and Diamond Contracting. If you are considering a home renovations, give them a call.