S J Wilde Ltd
BackBased in Blackwater, S J Wilde Ltd is a plumbing and heating company that presents a notably divided reputation among its clientele. The feedback available paints a picture of two starkly different customer experiences, making it a business that warrants careful consideration. For potential customers in the Truro area, understanding this contrast is key to determining if S J Wilde Ltd is the right fit for their specific needs, whether it's a minor repair or a large-scale project.
On one hand, the company receives high praise for its efficiency and professionalism on certain types of jobs. Recent feedback describes the service as being of a very high standard and representing excellent value for money, with one customer giving their "highest recommendation." Another satisfied client noted that for tasks like fitting an outdoor tap and conducting a boiler servicing, the proprietor, Steve, was a "nice bloke" who was reasonably priced and caused no problems. This positive sentiment suggests that for routine maintenance, smaller installations, and general repairs, S J Wilde Ltd can be a reliable and effective local plumber.
A Tale of Two Experiences
However, this positive portrayal is sharply contrasted by several deeply critical reviews, which contribute to a low overall rating. The most detailed negative account stems from a significant bathroom fitting project that reportedly went awry. The customer outlines a series of serious issues, beginning with the final bill being double the initial £1,300 budget. This raises significant questions about the company's quoting and cost management processes for larger, more complex jobs.
Further allegations from this bathroom project include being charged £270 for a mixer tap and shower head that the customer found online for £120, suggesting a considerable mark-up on parts. Beyond the financial disputes, the quality of the workmanship was also called into question. The review details a catalogue of problems, including poor tiling with gaps left between the floor and wall tiles, the omission of skirting boards, a faulty plug on a sink supplied by the company, and the use of a cheap, coated MDF bath panel that needed replacing. These points are critical for anyone considering a full bathroom installation, where the quality of the finish is paramount.
Aftercare and Customer Service Concerns
Perhaps most concerning are the claims regarding aftercare and communication. The same reviewer states that after the newly fitted mixer tap broke, it took nearly six months and numerous phone calls to get it replaced. When attempts were made to address the other finishing issues, the calls were allegedly met with promises that were not kept. According to the review, a final confrontation resulted in a dismissive and rude response, with the business owner allegedly refusing to rectify the problems. This account, though several years old, highlights a potential weakness in post-project support and dispute resolution.
This is not an isolated incident of dissatisfaction. Other one-star ratings, although less detailed, reinforce this negative pattern. One simply states the engagement "just wasn't a smooth transaction," while another offers no comment, letting the low rating speak for itself. This collection of negative feedback suggests that while some customers have excellent experiences, a significant number have been left deeply unsatisfied.
Evaluating the Services of S J Wilde Ltd
Public records and directory listings indicate that S J Wilde Ltd is classified as a provider of 'Plumbing, heat and air-conditioning installation'. The director, Stephen Wilde, is listed as a 'Plumbing And Heating Engineer'. This scope covers a wide array of potential jobs. Based on customer feedback and industry standards, their services likely include:
- General plumbing repairs (e.g., fixing leaks, dripping taps)
- Boiler repair and routine boiler servicing
- Central heating installation and maintenance
- Bathroom fitting and refurbishments
- Clearing blocked drains
- Potentially offering services as an emergency plumber
A crucial consideration for any homeowner is whether a tradesperson is qualified to work with gas appliances. Any engineer undertaking work on gas boilers, hobs, or fires must be on the Gas Safe Register by law. At present, online searches for S J Wilde Ltd on the official Gas Safe Register do not immediately confirm their registration status. Therefore, it is imperative for any potential customer to ask to see the engineer's Gas Safe ID card before any gas-related work commences. This card details the specific types of gas work the engineer is qualified to perform.
Guidance for Prospective Clients
The available information on S J Wilde Ltd suggests a clear divergence in service quality between smaller, straightforward jobs and larger, multi-faceted projects. The most recent positive review is encouraging, possibly indicating an improvement in service or that the historical negative reviews are no longer representative. However, the severity of the past complaints cannot be ignored.
For those considering this professional plumber, a cautious and well-documented approach is advisable. For smaller tasks such as a boiler service or fixing a leak, the evidence suggests you may receive efficient and well-priced service. For larger undertakings like a full bathroom renovation or a complete central heating installation, the historical feedback advises greater diligence.
Potential customers should consider the following steps:
- Get an Itemised Quote: Insist on a detailed written quote that breaks down all costs for labour and materials. For materials, clarify if you can source them yourself to compare prices.
- Agree on a Payment Schedule: Avoid paying the full amount upfront. A payment schedule tied to project milestones is a safer approach.
- Check Qualifications: For any gas work, always ask to see a current Gas Safe ID card and check the qualifications on the back.
- Request Recent References: Ask for references from customers who have had similar-sized projects completed recently. This can provide a more current view of their capabilities than older online reviews.
- Clarify Warranties: Understand the warranty offered on both the workmanship and any parts supplied. Get this in writing.
In summary, S J Wilde Ltd appears to be a company with the potential to deliver highly satisfactory work, but with a history that includes significant project management and customer service issues. The decision to hire them should be based on the specific job required, backed by thorough personal vetting and clear, written agreements to protect your investment.
