T&B Tree Surgery

I commissioned Tom & his brother - they were both friendly and I wanted to support a family business. We agreed on a price of £450 to cut down a tree and Tom asked for a £200 deposit upfront so he could cover some of his overheads, which I thought was fair and I transferred the money.

Unfortunately Tom couldn't make the first arranged date and cancelled last minute. On the next date when they arrived, Tom wouldn't carry out the work for the agreed amount and quoted an additional £300 on top of the previously agreed price. We disagreed on the final cost and Tom agreed to refund my £200 deposit since no work or services were provided.

And so begins a long string of chasing text messages, emails, phone calls, whatsapp messages and voicemails to get in touch with Tom for the refund. He seemingly disappeared off the face of the earth. When I called from another phone number, Tom answered and eventually he once again agreed to refund the £200 that night. I called again later that evening when the funds weren't in my account as we'd agreed, and I had no response.

I've followed up with 11 text messages and 10+ attempted calls and began to get extremely frustrated.

I've now raised with the small claims court and continue to text and email Tom updates to let him know that I've raised this, but still no response when I try to call from my personal number. It's frustrating that it's only £200, but can't help but feel treating potential customers and potential advocates/referrals like this is what gives independent tradespeople a bad name, so hope this is settled through the courts/bailiffs soon. More...

Amazing customer service and very professional would 100% recommend

Excellent service, quick to respond and did a great job. They do work very hard! Would definitely hire again.

Nice guys, professional service. Everything you would want.

Fantastic work, great person. Really pleased with all!