Custom Pool build and Landscaping
This project was a disaster. They "completed" the work this year which is 3 years after they started. (in quotes because it's still not 100% complete). In all fairness however, we were using the pool in the first summer. They sold too many projects and couldn't deliver on these.
As timelines started slipping, I started withholding payments. That was one way of getting some attention from them. They immediately put a lien on my house. A clear abuse of power on their part as I was paying when they completed work. I always intended to pay and I did. So the legal process was additional expense I really didn't appreciate. Good way to treat your customers!
Betz uses contracts for most of the work. After speaking to a few of these folks, it's clear that Betz negotiates them to a very low cost and Betz takes a very high mark-up. The contractors are left cutting corners to make money off the deal.
After 3 years, I'm still having issues with my irrigation system and my backyard deck glass railings. I now have a worse irrigation system than when I started. The company for the railings is completely unresponsive and even Betz can't get them to get back to us. We decided to take matters in our own hands since nothing was moving with Betz. They only respond when they want their money.
They finally removed the lien on the house and we came to an agreement on the total cost.
I DO NOT recommend Betz to anyone. If you use them it's because of the reputation they have built and are quickly eroding.
Save some money and use anyone else!
- Approximate cost of services:
- $300,000.00
- Company Response
Mr. Z: We are very sorry that you are disappointed by your experience with Betz. It was especially difficult for pool construction in the spring of 2011. Environment Canada recorded it as one of the wettest on record. In spite of this, we were relieved that your pool was open for swimming by the end of June (we had promised you mid-June). We do admit there were some difficulties with the project, but wish to point out that some of them were the result of you requesting changes after the plans had been approved and the installation commenced. We are pleased now that the project is complete and a satisfactory resolution has been reached. Frank Blanchet, Betz Pools