C.V.M plumbing and bathrooms
BackBased in Solihull, C.V.M Plumbing and Bathrooms presents itself as a versatile trades company, handling projects that range from minor plumbing repairs to full-scale home extensions. Operating under the name CVM Construction for larger projects, the business, led by owner Chris Molloy since 2005, aims to provide a comprehensive service that covers everything from initial design to final installation. A key feature that immediately stands out is their extensive operating hours, available from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM seven days a week, offering a level of flexibility that is uncommon in the trade and highly beneficial for customers with demanding schedules or those in need of an emergency plumber.
The company has garnered a significant number of positive reviews across various platforms, with many customers praising the professionalism, skill, and work ethic of Chris and his team. Multiple testimonials highlight their punctuality, politeness, and tidiness on the job. For instance, one client undertaking a bathroom refit was initially sceptical but found the team to be great, keeping them informed throughout the process and responding swiftly to a minor leak issue the day after completion. Another customer praised their "outstanding" workmanship on a complete bathroom remodel, noting that Chris and his colleague Jake were professional, friendly, and trustworthy. This client was particularly impressed that when unforeseen issues from a previous installation arose, Chris rectified them without adding extra labour costs to the final bill, sticking to the original quote.
A Reputation for Large-Scale Projects
Beyond standard plumbing and bathroom fitting, C.V.M has built a strong reputation for successfully managing and executing significant construction work. Their portfolio includes extensions, garage conversions, and complete house renovations. One particularly glowing review comes from a client who hired them for a nine-week extension build. They described the service as "absolutely brilliant from start to finish" and lauded Chris for his outstanding project management. This feedback suggests that the company is well-equipped to handle the complexities of larger builds, maintaining clear communication and delivering results within a respectable timeframe. Other reviews for two-storey extensions echo this sentiment, with clients being "over the moon" and stating they would not hesitate to use the company again. This proficiency as a general contractor is a significant asset, offering clients a single point of contact for multifaceted home improvement projects.
The Customer Service Experience
A recurring theme in positive feedback is the high level of communication and customer-centric approach. Clients frequently mention that the team listens to their requirements, offers sound advice, and ensures they are happy with the work at every stage. One customer noted that Chris and his team were "willing to go that extra mile," which led them to commission more work after the initial job was completed so well. Another appreciated how they were kept up to date on timescales and found the team respectful of their circumstances while carrying out an accessibility-focused bathroom refit. This consistent praise points towards a business that, at its best, prioritises client satisfaction and builds lasting relationships, turning one-off jobs into repeat business.
Points of Concern and Inconsistent Experiences
However, the overall picture is not uniformly positive. The business holds a moderate rating of 3.8 stars on Google, which is influenced by at least one highly detailed negative review that raises significant concerns. This particular client's experience contrasts sharply with the overwhelmingly positive feedback found elsewhere. They hired C.V.M for a downstairs toilet and sink installation for an elderly parent, and while the initial quote was reasonable, the price reportedly increased twice after the work had begun, citing the job was "bigger than expected."
More critically, the review alleges that the job was left incomplete. The company was paid on the agreement that they would return to fit handrails, a crucial safety feature for the elderly resident. Despite multiple attempts to contact them, they reportedly failed to return to finish the work. The client also discovered bags of rubbish from the job had been dumped in their shed, and the new flooring was left uneven. This account highlights a serious inconsistency in service, particularly regarding pricing transparency and, most importantly, job completion and aftercare. While many customers report flawless experiences, this negative review serves as a crucial reminder for potential clients to be diligent.
Navigating Potential Pitfalls
The disparity between the numerous five-star reviews and the detailed three-star review suggests that while the quality of the core workmanship is often high, there may be inconsistencies in project management and finalisation. The issue of price increases mid-project is a common fear for homeowners, and the allegation that it happened here is a notable red flag. It directly contradicts the experience of other clients who praised the company for sticking to the initial quote even when complications arose. This suggests that potential customers should ensure they receive an extremely detailed, itemised quote that clearly outlines the scope of work and establishes a clear procedure for handling unforeseen issues and any associated costs.
Services Offered
Based on its business classifications and extensive customer feedback, C.V.M Plumbing and Bathrooms offers a wide array of services. As dedicated bathroom fitters and skilled local plumbers, their expertise covers:
- Complete bathroom and kitchen refurbishments
- General plumbing, including leak detection and repairs
- Shower installations and wet room conversions
- Installation of toilets, sinks, and radiators
- Tiling, flooring, and finishing work
- Larger construction projects such as single and two-storey extensions
- Garage conversions and garden outbuildings
- Full project management
Final Assessment
C.V.M Plumbing and Bathrooms is a company with evident and wide-ranging capabilities. Numerous satisfied customers attest to their high-quality workmanship, professionalism, and ability to manage complex projects from extensions to full bathroom renovations effectively. The team's flexibility, demonstrated by their extensive working hours and broad skill set, makes them an attractive option for many homeowners in and around Solihull.
However, prospective clients should not overlook the documented inconsistencies in customer experience. The concerns raised regarding mid-project price increases and a failure to complete all agreed-upon tasks are significant. To ensure a positive outcome, it would be prudent for anyone considering their services to establish a very clear and legally sound contract before work commences. This agreement should meticulously detail every aspect of the job, include a payment schedule tied to completion milestones, and explicitly define the process for approving any changes or additional costs. By taking these precautions, clients can better position themselves to experience the five-star service that many of C.V.M's customers have clearly received.