Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:04/14/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Date: April 12, 2025 Subject: Complaint Against J&J Construction and Base*ment Systems Dear Sir/Madam, I am submitting a formal complaint against J&J Construction and Basement Systems, owned by Jimmy, for poor workmanship, breach of contract, and unprofessional conduct. I hired the company to perform several home improvement tasks at my residence, located at * ******* ******* ********** ** *****. Background: On March 11, 2024, I signed a contract with J&J Construction for $14,*00.00. The agreement included installing a new driveway, constructing new steps, and modifying a bearing wall, with a promised timeline of two weeks. The work was not completed as agreed and suffered from multiple issues. 1. Driveway Issues: The concrete was poured unevenly. The contractor later cut lines into the dried surface, causing cracks. Repairs using patch cement were poorly done and did not last. 2. Code Violations: The steps were not up to code and were incomplete, missing the final step. Only after multiple follow-ups did they return to address it. *. Inferior Materials: Partial mesh was used in the driveway, undermining the structure’s strength. 4. Unclean Worksite: Debris and old materials were left behind despite promises to clean up. 5. Delays and Poor Communication: The project dragged on for over a month. There was no notice or explanation for missed days. 6. Structural Concerns: I am now unsure if the bearing wall was done safely. Given the pattern of cutting corners, I fear it may not be structurally sound. Attempts to Resolve: I attempted to contact the contractor several times to address these issues and request a partial refund. Instead of resolving the matter, he accused me of harassment to deflect responsibility. Request: I ask that the BBB investigate this company for their practices. Their failure to deliver quality work has caused significant financial and emotional stress. Thank you for your assistance. Sincerely, ******* **** Email: *******************

  Business Response

  Date: 04/29/2025

  
  We would like to begin by stating that our business is a fully legitimate and lawfully registered entity in the state of ***********. We hold a valid Home Improvement Contractor License and maintain active insurance coverage. The allegations made by **** **** *******, insinuating that we are a fraudulent company, are entirely false and defamatory.

  Regarding the claims presented, we have a legally binding contract signed by the homeowners on March 11, 2024, which clearly outlines the terms and conditions of the project. Per the contract, a 50% down payment was made at the time of signing. The project commenced on March 18, 2024, with an estimated completion time of 15 business days, contingent upon weather conditions. Due to rain—an uncontrollable factor, especially when working with concrete—we experienced a slight delay and completed the project on April 9, 2024, just three business days behind schedule. At that time, the homeowners expressed understanding and satisfaction with the progress.
  
  Upon completion, the homeowners reviewed the final result and issued the final payment on April 10, 2024, as stipulated in the contract. A receipt was provided and accepted. Weeks later, on a Wednesday, **** **** ******* contacted our office expressing dissatisfaction with one section of the driveway. We immediately scheduled a next-day service, and our crew addressed her concerns on site.
  
  We received no further communication from **** **** ******* until October 2024, when she contacted our supervisor, Mr. Jimmy O**, stating that she was in the process of selling her home and that a bank inspector allegedly informed her that the backyard stairs we renovated were not up to code. Please note that these were existing stairs that were remodeled, not newly constructed. During this call, **** **** ******* became extremely upset, using profane and threatening language in both ******* *** *******. She demanded a full refund and became increasingly aggressive when informed that Jimmy O** was out of town at the time.

  Despite the hostility, Mr. O** asked her to provide the contact information of the bank inspector, so we could understand the alleged issue and work towards a solution. **** **** ******* refused to share this information and escalated her behavior further, screaming and issuing threats. When Mr. O** returned, he offered to either contact the bank inspector or involve the **** ** ********* Building Department to inspect the stairs and confirm compliance. This suggestion further enraged **** **** *******, leading to more verbal abuse and threats, which were witnessed by multiple staff members in the office due to her volume.
  

  **** **** ******* continued to call excessively, beginning as early as 6:00 AM and continuing until midnight, insisting that Mr. O** visit the property alone. During one of these calls, she stated she would physically assault him and his family, claiming, “he was going to pay one way or another” and “she would get someone to do it if she couldn’t.” She also said she was “from the *****, from the streets,” and made repeated threats to ruin his reputation via TV, radio, and online platforms. Additionally, *** ****** *******, who appears to be involved on her behalf, claimed he would involve a friend who is a *** **** ***** ******** ******** to “handle this.”
  
  At this point, due to the repeated threats, harassment, and safety concerns, we made the decision to block both **** ******* and *** ********* phone numbers. We did not receive any further communication until **** ******* filed a formal complaint with the *********** ********** ** ******** **********, to which we responded. She also began calling the main office pretending to be a new customer to obtain Mr. O**** personal contact information, which our staff rightfully refused to disclose.
  
  After hours, she contacted our emergency answering service again pretending to be another person, still attempting to reach Mr. O**. That same day, she posted a defamatory review on ****** and later sent a letter demanding a full refund, which we responded to professionally. Although her original complaint involved the backyard stairs, she has since shifted the narrative to focus only on the driveway, which was never mentioned as an issue at the start.
  
  We will be attaching the signed contract, photos, and videos showing the job both during and after completion. It’s important to clarify that the section of the yard without a wall was intentionally left untouched, per the homeowners’ request, as they had planned to install a Jacuzzi in that area. This was not part of the scope of work.
  
  To summarize, our scope of work included:
  •Complete removal and replacement of the existing asphalt driveway
  •Construction of a retaining wall
  •Renovation of existing stairs
  
  All work was completed in full accordance with the contract, and the homeowners paid the final balance after reviewing the completed work.
  
  While we attempted to address **** *******’s concerns reasonably, her abusive language and threatening behavior made any further communication impossible. We will no longer engage with the homeowners due to the ongoing harassment and threats made against our staff and their families.
  
  Our company remains committed to professionalism and accountability. We strive to serve all clients with integrity, but we cannot allow false statements, abuse, or intimidation to be directed at our employees. Please let us know if you require any additional documentation or information.
  Sincerely,
  
  
  Lisbet A*****
  Owner
  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 04/30/2025

  RE: Response to Statement from J&J Constructions and Basement Systems LLC
  
  
  To Whom It May Concern,
  
  
  I am writing in response to the statement submitted by J&J Constructions and Basement Systems LLC regarding the construction work performed at my property located at ** ******* ******* ********** **.
  
  
  First and foremost, I would like to clarify that my concerns are not based on defamation or false claims, but on facts supported by documentation and communication with local authorities. The contractor failed to secure the necessary building permits for the work performed, including the retaining wall and stair renovations—a requirement under the **** ** *********’s building code. At no point was I ever informed that a permit was needed, nor did the contractor advise me that they had failed to obtain one. As a new homeowner unfamiliar with these processes, I hired J&J Constructions in good faith, trusting that a licensed contractor would handle all required legal procedures.
  
  
  It was only after the work was completed and I consulted with the ****** Building Department that I discovered the construction was done without any approved permits or inspections. I have since been advised to apply for a retroactive permit, and I have submitted a formal explanation letter to the Inspection Division to correct this matter—something I am now burdened with solely due to the contractor’s negligence.
  
  
  The contractor’s characterization of events involving alleged threats and harassment is a gross misrepresentation intended to distract from their failure to comply with the law. While I strongly dispute those claims, I will allow the evidence and the facts to speak for themselves in the proper venue. My focus remains on the unpermitted construction, structural concerns, and seeking the return of the $14,*00 I paid for work that was incomplete, unpermitted, and not up to code.
  
  
  As stated in my prior communications, I will be pursuing this matter through the appropriate legal channels, including *********** ******** *****, as well as continuing my formal complaints with the ********** ** ******** ********** and other relevant agencies.
  
  
  Sincerely,
  ******* ****
  ** ******* *** ********** ** ***** ************
  *******************
  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 04/30/2025

  Subject: Response to J&J Constructions and Basement Systems LLC’s Rebuttal
  
  
  Dear Better Business Bureau,
  
  
  I am writing in response to the letter submitted by J&J Constructions and Basement Systems LLC regarding my complaint.
  
  
  Their response is misleading and fails to address the core issue: the contractor performed major structural work—including a retaining wall, driveway, and stair renovations—without obtaining the legally required permits. At no point was I informed that a permit was necessary, nor did the contractor disclose that they had failed to obtain one. I only learned this after contacting the **** ** *********’s Building Department, where I was advised to apply for a retroactive permit due to the unapproved work.
  
  
  This is not a simple oversight—it is a serious violation of state and local building codes. The contractor lied to collect final payment, falsely giving me the impression that the project was complete and properly handled. In reality, the work was done without the required approvals and inspections.
  
  
  Now, because of their negligence, I am being held responsible for applying for a retroactive permit and paying penalties. I also have to pay out of pocket to bring the work up to code. My home was up to code before they touched it. I do not have the extra money to fix problems that should never have existed. I need the $14,*00 I paid returned so I can address the unsafe and unapproved construction they left behind.
  
  
  In addition, I repeatedly trip on the third step they rebuilt because it is too high and uneven. This is a physical hazard to myself and others. The pictures speak for themselves—they show visible issues and structural concerns that raise legitimate safety questions.
  
  
  Rather than take accountability, the contractor is now trying to claim harassment to deflect attention from their wrongdoing. These exaggerated and defamatory claims are a transparent attempt to avoid responsibility for their botched and unpermitted work.
  
  
  I respectfully ask that the BBB continue to assist in resolving this matter and holding the contractor accountable.
  
  
  Sincerely,
  ******* ****
  ** ******* *** ********** ** ***** ************
  *******************
  
  

  Business Response

  Date: 04/30/2025

  Have a wonderful day 

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/15/2024

  Type:Order Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  We contractor J&J Constructions and Basements at the end of May . Job description was to remove asphalt from driveway and cement it. Remove backyard wood step and remake them in cement with paver . Also Remove and rebuild backyard retaining wall. Job ETA : start to finish 3 weeks according to the contractor owner Jimmy. Job was poorly operated . Jimmy who is the owner of the company name to the job site twice. When the pour the cement for the drive way I ask them to cut the lines when the cement is wet , which is the correct way to do so. Jimmy said "no" They cut the lines when the cement is dry . NEVER Seen this done this way . So when his crew came to cut the lines they started first row and the lines were look crooked Second line , have way now the machine broke down . We complained to him about it so they came back and patches they awful lines they did which keeps cracking as shown in the photo. Now to the backyard steps . We told him we wanted it the same way as the original steps . We his crew finished the job .we did advise him the job was done wrong and it looks horrible . And it also a tripping hazard which first four step riser are 4 inches high and the two bottom steps risers are Ten inches high. We reached out to him and hebstates that what we wanted. Which he's is wrong and we have photos to prove so . All we want is him to fix it the right way or refund us for the work.

  Business Response

  Date: 10/16/2024

  Project was dene on March 2024 , everything was done as per contract, customer was satisfied with the end result ,they paid in full, everything was done as agreed, everything was fine until the end of September beginning of October when Mrs ******* call our    supervisor stating that the steps didn't pass inspection,since they were trying to sell the property, our inspector ask them what was  that needed to fix or why didn't pass inspection, she started to scream extremely loud,and refused to provide information, our supervisor ask to get the number of the bank inspector to figure it out and she was not providing anything information, supervisor also suggested to contact the city building department to get on inspection and Mrs ******* got even angry,, she started to threaten and using vulgar language towards our staff member, we have recorded calls,then she started to call and text non stop threatening and harassing our staff member,we send our crew over to fix  a crack she was also complaining on driveway,our crew when , fixed that was on Thursday,by Sunday Mrs ******* started again, calls at different times, nonstop,text asking our supervisor to go over the property because he was going to pay  one way or another,to bring his mother,wife, daughter and himself,she was going to physically assault everyone, our supervisor ask Mrs ******* to please stop with the massive phone calls,text, threats, harassment, she got extremely hostile she said she was getting her lawyer ,tv channel,and Mr. ******* was getting the ** ***** *********it was on and on threats and harassment in English and Spanish,we try to reason with them but it was impossible,the picture submitted in their behalf is when job was half way not completed we submitted video of finish steps and wall the side that has no wall was not part of the contract since they were doing some other projects nothing to do with us. We have contract, video, Tex, phone calls, where the ******* were extremely hostile verbally aggressive, threats, harassment, slander our business,we have not responded to their calls and text since we submitted everything to our legal team to take action of this situation, everything was done as per contract with their approval and authorization,they paid we when our separate ways until they try to sell the property,and refused to contact,bank inspector or city building inspection.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:05/01/2023

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  UnansweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  J & J Constructions and Basements Systems did some work at my house in 2022. Because they came unprepared, they had to use some of my materials. They also had to come back to correct numerous problems with their work. I had to replace the materials they used at a cost of $50.92. See copy of **** ***** receipt. They have agreed to reimburse me numerous times. See copy/paste of email chain attached. Despite the promises to pay, they have not paid and are no longer responding to calls or emails. While this is a small sum, I simply hate to be lied to so many times. Thank you.