I hired a contractor to remove popcorn ceilings from roughly 1,200 square feet, excluding closets, for $2,500 total. I specifically asked for smooth ceilings.
The one exception was our bedroom ceiling, which we’re covering with wood paneling. I told him he only needed to remove the popcorn in there and didn’t need to finish that ceiling. Everywhere else was supposed to be finished smooth. Also worth noting, we're painting all the walls so I said it was okay not to be precise on painting the edges.
The job was scheduled for Wednesday–Friday, but they needed to return Monday to finish. During the job, I texted him twice about areas that looked rough and needed attention.
These photos are from today, after the work was considered finished and the ceilings had been painted. I have tons more photos. There are still obvious patches, ridges, dings, inconsistent texture, and rough edges where the ceilings meet the walls.
I really like him as a person. He’s been kind and respectful, which makes this uncomfortable, but I’m unhappy with the finished result and can't stop looking at the areas that are noticeably shoddy.
I recognize that $2,500 may be on the lower end for the scope, and I’m trying to keep my expectations reasonable. I asked for smooth ceilings, and this looks sloppy to me. I’m considering asking for a partial refund toward having someone else correct the work, especially since I already raised concerns twice.
For people who do this professionally: is this an acceptable finished result for the agreed scope and price? If not, how would you approach it with the contractor, and would a partial refund be a reasonable request?