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Jacksonville man pays contractor $1400 for backyard playground, ends up with dirt instead

A Jacksonville father hired a contractor to build a concrete slab in his backyard for a playground, but $1,400 later, he still doesn't have what he paid for.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — In July, Jacksonville resident Michael Bunag made a significant investment in what seemed like a simple project for his children.

"It is now a big headache," Bunag said. "It was for our kids."

He hired a concrete contractor to build a concrete slab in his backyard large enough for a playground.

"So the kids can no longer play in the driveway, but they can play in the backyard safely," he said.

Bunag hired A1 Affordable Concrete and now regrets the decision.

He found the company on Facebook but failed to check its references.

"I did not [check references] and it has been frustrating," he said.

Paul Batten agreed to do the work for $2,300. They agreed on a $1,400 down payment.

Bunag said Batten did some prep work. The yard was cleared and some forming boards were put in place, but that and the wheelbarrow left behind are all he has for the $1,400.

"I didn't expect it to happen this way," Bunag said.

After several failed attempts to resolve the issue, Bunag decided to call On Your Side.

"He won't respond to my calls," Bunag said. "He has answered some texts but won't say when he is coming back." 

He has lost all confidence in this concrete contractor and is ready to move on.

"I gave him numerous opportunities to finish it, I mean, right?" Bunag said. "I want partial or all of my money back, so I can hire somebody to do the job."

On Your Side spoke with Batten. He gave a number of reasons for not being able to complete the work.

But said he too is ready to resolve it.

"We moved three loads of dirt and sod and I paid my guys $900," Batten said. "I am going to give him a $500 refund and he can hire someone else."

On Your Side will follow up to see if he does.

Here is the take away when hiring a contractor:

  • Check at least three references
  • Pay your contracts in thirds
  • Get a start and completion date in writing



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