Forth Plumbing and Joinery

Forth Plumbing and Joinery, based in Haddington, presents a complex picture for potential customers, with a service history marked by both effusive praise and significant criticism. The business, which handles both plumbing and joinery work, has garnered a high overall rating from numerous clients, yet a detailed negative account raises substantial concerns. Understanding this duality is key for anyone considering their services for projects ranging from minor repairs to full-scale refurbishments.

On one hand, the majority of accessible reviews paint a picture of a highly competent and professional firm. Many customers highlight the outstanding quality of work delivered by Willie Malloy and his team. They are frequently described as professional, courteous, and reliable, turning up on schedule and leaving the work area clean and tidy. For many, this reliability is a cornerstone of their positive experience. The company is commended for its role as skilled bathroom fitters and for high-standard kitchen installations. Testimonials repeatedly mention that the work, whether a full bathroom refurbishment or a new kitchen, is completed to an exceptional standard, with strong attention to detail. Clients have expressed immense satisfaction with the end results, noting that the team is happy to comply with specific wishes and maintains excellent communication throughout the process. Furthermore, many reviews praise the company for fair and reasonable pricing, suggesting they offer good value for the high quality of service provided.

A Tale of Two Experiences

The positive feedback extends to a variety of jobs, from large projects like fitting new kitchens and bathrooms to smaller, yet crucial, plumbing tasks. Customers have recommended the firm for their versatility, handling everything from shower room installations to cloakroom fittings and general repairs. There's a recurring theme of gratitude for the team going 'above and beyond', particularly when dealing with unforeseen issues or supplier delays, demonstrating flexibility and a customer-focused approach. One client specifically noted how the company worked around delivery problems that were no fault of their own, expressing immense gratitude for the accommodation. This level of service has led many to state they would not hesitate to recommend Forth Plumbing and Joinery to friends and family, and would readily use their services again.

However, it would be remiss to ignore the starkly contrasting experience detailed in a comprehensive one-star review. This account presents a completely different perspective, alleging a series of severe issues during a major refurbishment involving two bathrooms, a kitchen, and doors. The client claims a profound lack of competence, starting with an inability to read building warrant drawings, which they state could lead to costly rectification work. This is a serious accusation for any general contractor.

Communication and Competency Concerns

The negative review details a pattern of poor communication, not just with the client but also with other tradespeople. It's alleged that work was completed in the wrong order, such as boxing in pipes before electrical work was finished, and an outright refusal to coordinate with other trades. In the realm of kitchen installation, the reviewer claims the team ignored manufacturer's drawings, incorrectly cut panels, and struggled with fitting standard appliances without assistance. Further issues cited include the premature removal of protective films, leading to potential damage, and disorganisation regarding parts and supplies.

The criticism extends to shoddy workmanship on finishing details, such as damaged fire doors during the fitting of closers and poorly fitted hinges and skirting boards. The reviewer also recounts a troubling experience with a recommended plasterer who allegedly inflated costs and failed to show up, leading to the business owner reportedly expressing concern over potential theft by the subcontractor he himself had recommended. This detailed account concludes with a strong warning to others to avoid the company at all costs.

Weighing the Evidence

For a potential customer, this creates a difficult decision. The business holds an impressive 4.9-star rating on Google from 30 reviews, and numerous positive testimonials across other platforms like Checkatrade and Yell reinforce this. Many reviews explicitly praise the professionalism and high standard of work. One customer even directly advises others to ignore the one-star review, sharing their own positive experience around the same time. This suggests that the negative experience, while severe, may not be representative of their typical standard of service.

The business operates from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with shorter hours on Saturday and is closed on Sundays, indicating a standard work week for a local plumber. They undertake a broad scope of work, combining plumbing with joinery, which can be a significant advantage for customers looking for a single contractor for refurbishments. However, the detailed negative account raises questions about their project management and execution on more complex, multi-trade jobs. Potential clients should weigh the sheer volume of positive feedback against the gravity of the complaints in the negative review. It may be prudent to seek detailed quotes, clarify communication protocols, and perhaps request references for similar-sized projects before committing to major work with any contractor, including this one.