FORMAL COMPLAINT AND REQUEST FOR IMMEDIATE ESCALATION -Order #300901241260663143…read more
Re: Failed Refrigerator Installation, Unprofessional Conduct, Property Concern, Undue Stress, and Request for Compensation
I am writing to file a formal complaint and request immediate escalation regarding the delivery of my new refrigerator with an ice maker from Lowe's. What should have been a routine appliance delivery and installation became one of the most upsetting and humiliating customer-service experiences I have encountered.
An unidentified delivery truck arrived at my home with two delivery personnel. There was a significant communication barrier, as neither individual appeared to speak English fluently enough for us to communicate effectively regarding the delivery, installation requirements, and services associated with my order.
More concerning, however, was the demeanor and conduct of the primary delivery person. From the beginning, he was rude, impatient, dismissive, and unprofessional. After entering my home, he went back outside and later returned complaining that they had "already been here for 15 minutes." I was made to feel as though I was inconveniencing him by expecting the delivery and installation services associated with my purchase.
When he examined the water line connected to my existing refrigerator, he stated that because the line was plastic, he would not connect the new refrigerator. He then stated that he was not going to leave the new refrigerator at my home.
I explained that my order was supposed to include delivery and installation of the new refrigerator and removal/haul-away of my old refrigerator. His response to me was simply, "NO."
During this encounter, the new refrigerator was placed back onto the delivery truck at least twice. Ultimately, the delivery team left my new refrigerator sitting in my living room, while my old refrigerator remained in my kitchen. The new appliance was therefore not properly installed or placed into service, and the old appliance was not removed as expected.
Additionally, one of the delivery personnel removed my front door to bring the appliance into my home. The door was not rehung correctly. Lowe's or its delivery contractor must therefore address the condition of my door and any repair or adjustment required as a result of this delivery.
I understand that Lowe's or its delivery contractor may have specific requirements regarding refrigerator water lines. If a plastic water line did not meet those requirements, the appropriate response was to explain the requirement to me professionally, tell me what needed to be corrected, and complete whatever portions of the delivery could properly be performed. A plumbing or installation requirement does not excuse disrespectful treatment of a customer.
Impact on Me and My Household
I am a senior customer, and I expect to be treated with basic dignity, patience, consideration, and respect when individuals enter my home to perform a service.
The delivery person's behavior caused me significant and undue stress and emotional distress. His demeanor was so hostile and upsetting that I was shaking and experiencing a pounding heartbeat during and following the encounter. I felt humiliated, intimidated, disrespected, and extremely upset in my own home.
This was not the ordinary frustration or inconvenience associated with a delayed appliance delivery. I was subjected to unnecessary and undue stress because of the manner in which this delivery person communicated with and treated me. No customer, particularly a senior customer who has invited delivery personnel into her home in reliance upon Lowe's, should be made to feel intimidated or humiliated while simply attempting to receive merchandise and services for which she paid.
The stress did not end when the delivery personnel left. I was left to deal with the consequences of their actions: a new refrigerator sitting in my living room, my old refrigerator remaining in my kitchen, my front door improperly rehung, no properly functioning new refrigerator, and uncertainty regarding when the situation would be corrected.
This failed delivery has also created an immediate hardship for my household. I have no refrigerated food available and am being forced to take my son and house guest out to eat because of this situation. My son will also be without his normal breakfast for two days, which is particularly concerning because he needs to eat breakfast in order to take his medication.
I should not have to incur additional meal expenses, disruption to my household, and undue emotional stress because the delivery and installation service was not properly completed.
Evidence
I have photographic documentation, including photographs of the delivery person and photographs showing the