Big Name, Big Promises, Zero Delivery

In 2016 I contracted with Maxidor, Herm**** (franchise holder Mr Jacobus Venter) for installation of a Maxifence. The full amount of R 46 628.19 was paid up front. The project commenced on 17 October 2016 and was finished only on 15 November 2016. From day one there were various problems. I therefore appointed a Professional Project Manager to inspect the project on 21 December 2016. A full written report, backed up by photo’s, was submitted to Mr Martin Landsman, Distribution Manager (National/International) of Maxidor. He described it as shocking. The Distribution Manager (Western & Eastern Cape), Mr Assure, inspected the work on 24 January 2017. After six weeks of several enquiries, a report was submitted in which it was acknowledged that the work was unacceptable. Mr Assure’s recommendation to repair the mesh and to replace three of the posts, as well as Management’s decision to replace twelve posts, the 6 m sliding gate and the1m swing gate, were accepted. The attempt to repair and replace the fence started on 12 June 2017 - again fraught with problems, amongst others: o the 6 m sliding gate could not be used because of wrong panel sizes; o the gate catch post was too short; o the track was delivered in an advanced state of corrosion; o posts were chipped and had surplus holes; and o matching spray paint, caps, hinges, barrel bolt and a few posts were outstanding

Work was halted and on 8 August 2017 Maxidor removed all material from site. A refund was promised after collection. In correspondence to Maxidor it was stressed that the contract was with Maxidor, not the franchise holder, and that the refund from Maxidor should be made directly to me. After months of correspondence and unfulfilled promises, Maxidor eventually offered a 76% refund of the contract price through their franchise holder, Mr Venter. This was unacceptable and conveyed in writing to Mr Landsman.

On 22 September 2017 he responded “Please be advised we are working on getting you the full refund. Please allow me to get back to you with an update on Tuesday or latest on Wednesday.”

We are still awaiting the update… Maxidor failed to provide the service and product that they advertise. I am now left with no fence, no refund, the loss of interest on the money, extensive damage to my property and expenses for additional professional services. Moreover, I am still exposed and without the security that I paid for more than a year ago.