What if things go wrong?
Nobody's Perfect
Even the strongest vetting process has its limitations and we can't guarantee that you will always be happy with the service your receive. Over the past +/- 20 years, we have found that roughly 2% of reviews are complaints. Most firms will admit to the occasional mistake but they also face difficult customers, with unreasonable demands that can't be resolved. So if you read a complaint about a firm that has otherwise impressed you, get in touch and ask them for their side of the story.
Speak to the firm
If you have a concern or complaint, make sure you contact the business as soon as possible and before you tell us - it's only fair to them. The sooner you speak to them, the more likely it is that they can do something to help. Confirm your questions in writing and keep a copy of their replies.
If the firm is a member of a professional body
Follow the link from their memberships page to see if they can help - especially on technical matters. Many organisations have a formal process to handle consumer complaints.
Contact Citizens Advice
The Citizens Advice service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free, independent and confidential advice. Every Citizens Advice Bureau is a registered charity reliant on trained volunteers and funds to provide these vital services for local communities. Call them on 03454 040506 or visit Citizens Advice Bureau
Tell Referenceline
We will show your review to the business before it is published, and we usually allow 10 days for you to try to resolve any issues.
Ratings Moderation
If an independent adjudicator finds in favour of the business, then Referenceline will publish the review but may exclude that customer's ratings from the total for that business, if this will help consumers make a more informed choice.
Useful links
BBC Watchdog
This includes a number of sample letters which you can tailor to your complaint.