RCS Property Worx Ltd

"We hired RCS for sleeper borders, topsoil and lawn work, front lawn excavation, and side gravel, but communication and project management were not clear or consistent. There were delays attributed to weather and staffing issues. The team was incorrectly briefed, resulting in an unnecessary hole being dug and sleepers almost positioned incorrectly. When I raised concerns to management, I was told I was “not trusting the process”. I spoke to the team directly, who also had concerns, and we eventually got the job sorted. On completion, the invoice was sent the same day, and we were repeatedly chased for payment within hours. RCS also tried to charge us for materials which, per our records, were not used. Areas of the property were left in a poor condition, with waste requiring attention, and I spent the weekend moving soil to correct issues left behind. Ultimately, we found the project stressful and felt the management fell short."

Trader reply: "I was first contacted on 9 July and, after three weeks of contact, the client decided to proceed. The quote was £3,500. Their budget was £3,000, I offered a £400 goodwill discount, which was accepted. The start date was always a guide. Rain and the client’s holiday delayed the start. We agreed to begin on their return, but they postponed it for 24 hours, which I accepted. Throughout the work, my team were questioned. On both occasions, work was progressing correctly, but the client intervened before completion. I explained the process and reassured them. “Trust the process” was never said by myself or my team. My team felt uncomfortable with constant monitoring and conflicting directions. They were not responsible for decisions, yet the client often instructed them directly. All unused materials were returned and deducted from the invoice. I charged my normal rate for gravel, covering overheads and profit. The client contacted my supplier and refused to pay the invoice, leaving me out of pocket despite the discount. The project was left clean, tidy, and the job looked amazing."

• Initial impression Initial impression: 2 out of 5.0
• Punctuality Punctuality: 3 out of 5.0
• Cleanliness Cleanliness: 2 out of 5.0
• Quality Quality: 3 out of 5.0
• Value Value: 3 out of 5.0
• Overall opinion Overall opinion: 3 out of 5.0