Response from Soots Me Chimney Co
I apologize for neglecting the member's request for service. There was a reason: breast cancer took my wife's mother during this time and my priorities were abruptly shifted away from work. I hadn't expected the toll this exact on me and my family. My company is small and I handle nearly all the phone calls, estimates, and paperwork- so she and several other callers were forgotten during this difficult time. Thankfully, others were more understanding and kindly allowed me to do the estimates and services I had promised them earlier. Her comments were partially correct if a death in one's family is no excuse for not calling them to advise them of my circumstances. Again, I apologize for not doing this. But I must respond to the hard words expressed about me and my company by saying that they are a "statistical outlier" in an otherwise long history of favorable comments offered by many other Angie's List members. It's also important to remember that no work was performed for this Angie's List member, so the grades regarding price and quality are without merit. She has the right to her opinion of whether or not I am a liar. My opinion naturally differs; I think a liar has a proven track record of deceptiveness,and that's simply not my style. I never thought I'd have such a strongly negative reaction to my company, especially in light of the many favorable reviews I've earned in the past. I again offer my apologies to the members, who was/were obviously hurt and insulted by my behavior. I shall strive to do better by every customer in the future. It' probably a good idea for me to find someone who can handle my calls and callbacks when something unexpected calls me away. In a larger sense, this report underscores the personal feelings that are at stake when someone searches for or hires a service company. I've long believed that most people who have hired me in the past were happy that they did, and for that I am truly grateful. Sincerely, Steve Guthrie - SOOTS ME! Chimney Service