Founder and Lead Designer
In Nairobi’s vibrant furniture market, finding a trustworthy fundi (artisan) or carpenter can be a daunting task. The promise of a custom bed or unique dining set at a good price can be tempting. However, if you’ve ever commissioned a piece from a local fundi, you know the process can come with its fair share of frustrations and surprises.
From delays to subpar materials, the experience often leaves customers feeling short-changed. In this post, we’ll expose 10 common lies that fundis and carpenters in Nairobi tell their customers and how you can protect yourself from these common pitfalls.
One of the most common lies is about the quality of wood used. Many fundis will promise to use hardwoods like mahogany, oak, or cypress but opt for cheaper, low-quality alternatives like softwood pine or MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) to cut costs.
How to Avoid This Lie: Ask to see the raw materials before the project starts. Familiarize yourself with different wood types, and if possible, purchase the wood yourself. This way, you can verify that what you paid for is actually what you get.
Timeliness is a challenge with many local carpenters. You’ll often hear promises like, “The job will be done in a week,” but weeks turn into months, leaving you frustrated.
How to Avoid This Lie: Get a written contract with a clear timeline and penalties for delays. This sets expectations and holds the fundi accountable for any missed deadlines.
Many fundis will confidently say they can replicate any design you show them from Pinterest or Instagram. In reality, they may not have the skills or tools to achieve the desired finish, leaving you with a subpar version of your dream piece.
How to Avoid This Lie: Ask for a portfolio of past work. If they don’t have photos of similar pieces they’ve completed, it’s a red flag. You can also request to see a similar piece in progress to gauge their skill level.
Another common lie is about the total cost of the project. A fundi might quote you a price that seems like a good deal, only to add unexpected costs later, such as for finishing, polishing, or transportation.
How to Avoid This Lie: Request a detailed written quotation that includes all potential costs: materials, labor, finishing, and delivery. Be wary of any vague pricing or last-minute additions.
Some fundis may claim to have a fully equipped workshop with a dedicated team, but in reality, they are outsourcing your project to another carpenter or using makeshift roadside setups, compromising the quality of your furniture.
How to Avoid This Lie: Visit their workshop before making any payments. This will help you verify the facilities and check if they truly have the capacity to handle your project.
Carpenters often cut corners with the finishing process, using low-quality varnish, paint, or stain that doesn’t last. They might claim it’s the best quality available, but in reality, it’s a cheaper, less durable alternative.
How to Avoid This Lie: Ask for a sample of the finish on a small piece of wood. Test it for scratches or wear before approving it for your project. You can also buy the finishing products yourself for better control over the quality.
While it might seem like a good deal when a fundi says they don’t need a deposit, this could be a tactic to build trust before asking for money midway through the project for “unexpected” costs or delays.
How to Avoid This Lie: Agree on a clear payment schedule before the work begins. A reasonable arrangement could be 30% upfront, 40% midway upon satisfactory progress, and the remaining 30% upon completion and delivery.
Some carpenters will push certain designs or finishes, claiming they are the latest trends. Often, this is an attempt to sell you what they have the most materials for or what is easier for them to make, rather than what suits your taste.
How to Avoid This Lie: Do your own research on design trends. Visit furniture showrooms or look online to see what’s in style. Make sure your chosen design reflects your taste, not just what the fundi wants to sell.
Sustainability is a buzzword many fundis use to convince customers of their eco-friendly practices. However, they may still use toxic glues, paints, and finishes that release harmful fumes, especially in indoor furniture.
How to Avoid This Lie: Ask for specifics about the materials used. Look for water-based paints and stains, low-VOC finishes, and eco-friendly adhesives. If they can’t provide details or certification, be cautious.
The biggest and most disappointing lie is the promise that you’ll get exactly what you ordered. Whether it’s the size, finish, or design, the final product often falls short of expectations, and you end up with a piece that looks completely different from what you envisioned.
How to Avoid This Lie: Ensure every detail is documented in a contract, including dimensions, materials, and finishing touches. Request photos during different stages of the project to monitor progress and ensure it meets your expectations.
At Eric Woodworks, we pride ourselves on our transparency, craftsmanship, and commitment to customer satisfaction. We understand that purchasing custom furniture can be an emotional investment, and we aim to deliver exactly what you envision—without the typical lies and disappointments.
Don’t fall for common carpenter scams and false promises. Choose a team that values honesty, quality, and your satisfaction above all. Visit Eric Woodworks to explore our custom furniture options and bring your dream pieces to life. Let us transform your home with unique, high-quality furniture tailored to your taste and needs.
Contact us today for a free consultation and get started on your next furniture project with a team you can trust. Your dream home is just a click away!