Not for the disabled..
When I first approached James Oliver Conservatories, they visited my home, and although James struggled to listen—he came across with a "I don’t need to listen to you" attitude—I still had high hopes based on his portfolio that my extension would be amazing. Unfortunately, my overall experience was deeply disappointing.
I requested a quote for an extension specifically designed to accommodate my disabled husband’s downstairs bedroom, a project that is exempt from VAT under the government’s ex-VAT scheme for disabled adaptations. Despite knowing this, the quote they provided included VAT.
When I asked for an amended quote without VAT, the team seemed unsure and said they needed to "check" if it was possible. After chasing them multiple times, I was eventually told that they had spoken to the council, HMRC, and others, and claimed the work didn’t meet the criteria. This was absolutely untrue. I had already confirmed with Adult Social Services, OBAM, the local council, and HMRC that the work did meet the criteria.
The lack of communication was staggering. I was told there would be a board meeting to discuss the VAT issue—an extraordinary step for what should have been a straightforward process. Even after calling again and waiting, no response was provided. Out of frustration, I visited their showroom in Lincoln to ask directly. The receptionist informed me that a letter would be sent, but when I asked for a simple "yes" or "no" as to whether they would participate in the ex-VAT scheme, she curtly said "no," turned away, and walked off.
To refuse to participate in the ex-VAT scheme, in my opinion, is discriminatory. This scheme exists to assist disabled people with essential adaptations, and their refusal shows a lack of understanding, empathy, and professionalism. To make matters worse, their dismissive attitude left me feeling ignored and disrespected.
If you're looking for a company that truly cares about their customers and understands the needs of disabled clients, I would strongly advise looking elsewhere. James Oliver Conservatories failed me at every turn.
23 de janeiro de 2025
Avaliação não solicitada