Answers

I would ask to speak with the owner of the business.  If they were responsible for the damage...and you can prove it was them that caused the system to fail (your security company will tell you)...then a smart business owner will want to make it right and reimburse you. If he doesn't, then file a complaint with the BBB, your local Electrical Workers union and if push comes to shove, small claims court to recover damages.

Do yourself a favor and hire a professional to finish your deck. They know what is needed and will do a good job for you.  Check with your local paint/stain store or building supply center for recommendations of guys that have been around awhile, are licensed/insured and will do a good job.

Aluminum windows are not energy efficient and they are noisy.  If the window is more than 10 years old, replace it with an energy star rated vinyl window that has bronze outside/white inside.  It will look better, be quieter and the energy savings will pay you back in a very short time.

Are you trying to keep the dog on the deck or off?  How big of dog are you talking about?

It depends.  Your contractor has to get the permiting office's approval and if your space doesn't meet code, he/she must request a variance.  Permiting can take a few hours, days and sometimes weeks...it depends on the local code compliance office in your locale.  An inspection may be done 2-3 times during your project and how fast that happens depends on how many inspectors your locale has.

Be certain that this is something you plan to use for years and years as the ROI on homeowner-specific improvements are not very high.  Budget for the concrete work involved is usually around $15-20K alone, not including the poles and painting.  If you plan to sell your home in less than 10 years or would need the court for less than 10 years, don't do it.  A new upgraded entry way, minor kitchen update, interior room/living space addition or new Hardie Board siding will give you a much better return on investment.

Talk with your local tree nursery or a state university agricultural extension office.  (Iowa State University has an excellent one.)  I love willows, but if the damage is too severe, you may need to begin again.

It looks like the mason did a good job concerning the texture. But the color is way off. Unfortunatly its not easy to match new to old. The good news- Staining morter isnt hard to do if its not sealed. I suggest a few practice bricks and some best efforts at staining them to match, then do the rest. The bad news- it will probably never be pefect and if it is it will show after a few years of all that Texas weather torture.