Customer reference for building, converting services as told to pickapro by Karen from Dublin 15 on 19-May-2011

When was the work done?
March 2011.

What was involved?
It was a complete open plan kitchen extension. When Stephen was finished that I got him to put paving down in the garden and to install garden lights for me as well.

How did you choose Shinte Home Improvements?
I actually got him online. A few builders came into me and gave me prices. I just got a nice vibe from Stephen, and he wasn't overpriced either, so I went with Stephen.

Had you definite ideas in mind before you talked to Stephen?
I did, I knew exactly what I wanted to the last thing. And Stephen did everything exactly the way I wanted. I was very specific, I probably drove him mad! I told him what I wanted, and he came back with the plans.

Did Stephen introduce new ideas?
Sometimes but he didn't try and change my mind - you know the some people might say, it'll be easier for me if we do it this way. Stephen did exactly what I wanted.

How did the project run?
Stephen was here every morning at 8 o'clock. He told me the work would take four weeks and he was done in about three and a half. All the men he had in were very nice - I didn't have any complaints.

I was living in the house during the build and they kept it clean too. They even washed my windows - he was very good.

What was the biggest benefit to you of using Shinte Home Improvements?

Because Stephen was in the trade, anything I wanted done, he knew someone who could do it for me. He knew an electrician who put in lights for me in the front of the house. He found a tiler for me too. And everyone he found seemed to be very good at their jobs.

What's your favourite part now?
I'm happy with all of it - I love the new room when I'm in it. I love the garden when I'm there. I'm very happy with it all.

Would you recommend Shinte Home Improvements to others?
I would yes. Definitely I would.

Any tips for other people?
Get your builder to organise everything. I bought doors from another company and they let me down, so the carpenter was left hanging around. You're just so much better off, if you get the one company to do everything.