**AVande Connect: Very Disappointing Experience**
My interaction with AVande Connect for a residential AV installation left much to be desired. Here are the key points:
1. **Owner's Demeanor:** The owner's demeanor was not conducive to a positive customer experience. Interactions were marked by rudeness and arrogance, which detracted from the professionalism expected in such engagements.
2. **Reliability Issues:** There were instances when AVande Connect failed to adhere to agreed-upon installation timing, necessitating follow-ups on my part to obtain explanations for their absence. This lack of punctuality caused inconvenience and uncertainty.
3. **Quality of Work:** The installation of light switches was subpar, requiring subsequent correction by builders. Issues such as the use of incorrect screw lengths resulted in switches not sitting flush against walls. Additionally, oversights such as drilling through a wall containing a pocket door without considering potential repercussions reflected a lack of attention to detail.
4. **Property Damage:** During the installation of a TV amp, my AV cupboard and new wood flooring sustained scratches. Surprisingly, AVande Connect did not acknowledge or address this damage, which was disappointing.
5. **Positive Aspects:** Despite the overall negative experience, it's worth noting that the designer, whom I primarily interacted with remotely, exhibited helpfulness and politeness. Furthermore, the individual responsible for wiring and installation demonstrated competence in his role, albeit amidst a challenging company culture, which he commented on.
In summary, my experience with AVande Connect was marred by various shortcomings, including issues with professionalism, reliability, work quality, and property damage. While some positives were observed, they were overshadowed by the overall negative experience. Consequently, I cannot recommend AVande Connect for residential AV installations based on my encounter with them.
5 April 2023
Unprompted review