Costa Rica Construction – Quality of Labor

One of the many questions people have about living here is about the cost and quality of labor.

I hear and read of people having problems with getting the type of work they want from the local laborer.

They end up hiring a bilingual ‘expat’ who promises quality work. They then pay much more than the job should cost and still do not always get what they want.

The ‘expat’ usually has locals do the job and he supervises. I believe the main problem is one of communication and trust. I speak the language and build trust with my neighbors.

Since I moved into my house, I have used locals to do all of the remodeling and furniture building. I admit I stayed close to all of the jobs and had to teach what I required as far as finish quality, but they were enthusiastic learners and now I can recommend them with no reservations.

Most all recommendations say get a quote for the total price, never just pay by the hour or day. I say most of the locals I use do not have the experience to properly quote a job and most jobs change as they evolve, so you have to change the cost as you go anyway.

I believe the most cost effective way to build any thing I need is to pay them by the day and have them help me negotiate the cost of materials.

My guys are all neighbors and I have grown to trust them so much that I gave them one million colones and laid out the plan for my ‘Mirador’ (kind of penthouse extension with wraparound views) before we left for a trip to the US.

They also will sleep in the house to guard against burglary, feed the kittens and water the garden. I have another neighbor who took photos of the progress. The job is progressing well and I will report on my satisfaction level next week.

I will get an itemized account of all expenditures when we return including the 7,000 colones (about $20 per day at the time) they charge per workday. That 7,000 Colones is per man, per day from 7am to 5:30pm.

They are fully capable of all of the skills to build furniture and houses including welding, tile work, painting, plumbing, electrical and concrete.

I am very proud and pleased with the cost and quality of these locals and believe if you will work on finding them, there are equally competent people in all parts of this country.

Written by our friend George Lundquist, who is the founder of Costa Rica Retire on Social Security. If you are thinking of retiring in Costa Rica, you might want to consider the tour that George offers, his goal is to share his experiences here with you to save you time and money!

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Andrew Makarik

to@welovecostarica.com

Andrew Makarik is the main editor of WeLoveCostaRica, a fan of this sunny country. He is also a loving husband and a has a lovely daughter. By being a devoted family man and the biggest Costa Rica fan, he wants to make more people feel at home there. WeLoveCostaRica unites people and helps them find new home or a new travel destination. This website is a friendly community where everyone can find not only information, but also new friends and travel pals. Andrew is also passionate about IT and programming, so he himself maintains a friendly atmosphere in this cozy environment of WeLoveCostaRica.com.