21/02/2020
TESTIMONIAL
This may seem a bit lengthy but if you are truly interested in resolving a building conflict please read on.
We engaged Peak Consulting after having some unsatisfactory carpentry work done and I would thoroughly recommend them.
Let me say at the outset there was no animosity between parties, we just couldn’t agree on cost.
When I first contacted Peter he outlined his estimated cost and probable timeline. He also clearly pointed out that as he is an independent inspector there was a possibility he might not find in our favour, and we should be prepared to accept that - a very important point.
Peter attended and fortunately both parties were on site, so resolution was quick, if not painless. Also fortunately, he did find in our favour.
He engaged with both parties separately and his impartiality was much appreciated. On arrival he listened to our grievances, inspected the work, and then spoke with the other party. An agreement was quickly negotiated, and both parties remain on good terms. That is due to his technical knowledge and negotiating skills. He demonstrated an ability to remove himself from the emotions of both sides, even the one which was paying him
I have read all previous reviews and would like to share my experience:
1. You cannot negotiate from a point of ignorance – if in doubt engage a professional, we did and it saved us quite a bit of money. It may seem expensive but an outlay of a few hundred dollars saved us thousands.
2. There was some delay in getting Peter on site. When I enquired with the office of Peak Consulting it was explained that the company had been inundated with emergency work following the recent hailstorms - understandable, so please, instead of getting your back up, ask and listen. It saves a lot of grief.
3. During my initial phone call with Peter there was a misunderstanding on cost. The invoice we received did not tally with the notes I had written down. I was disappointed, but needed his services, so I kept my disappointment to myself and went ahead. After dealing with Peter face to face I realised he is a man of principle and integrity, and the mistake was probably on my part. My advice here is listen, write it down, then read it back to confirm, and, don’t be too proud. In the end the matter took less time to resolve than he had anticipated and he reduced the cost accordingly.
4. Trust them. After I diligently pointed out all my grievances during the inspection Peter politely explained that while it was appreciated, it was not really necessary, as he had already spotted defects I didn’t know about.
5. At resolution Peter made it quite clear to both parties that he stood as an independent witness to the verbal agreement we had made.
6. Peter did take notes and photographs after the matter had been resolved, to keep on file should the matter need to be taken further.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Peak Consulting, and in particular Peter, if you are in dispute with a builder.
TM - O'Connor
Peak Consulting is a Building Consultancy with over 30 years experience in building, construction, r
