We've all done it.
We see a company listed with 4.9 star ratings and assume that it is a quality company that works with integrity.
And most of the time it is.
But not always. This is one of those times.
I requested an estimate from -Spark Electrician Services LLC - of Londonderry New Hampshire (NH) to do the wiring for and provide a portable home generator based on those ratings. They showed up with a truck and offered to do the work that day and I foolishly said yes. I was preoccupied with other things and didn't really pay attention - that's my fault ... but ...
I realized there are ways states and municipalities protect citizens, so I checked into them - which I should have done before allowing them to do the work.
Anyway - this post is about a popular search engine. I'll post about Spark later ...
The view on the left is what I see when I look at the reviews for Spark Electric if I am logged in to my account. The view on the right is what I see if I am not logged in to my account.
Imagine that. My negative review is not visible.
Spark Electrician Services pays the search engine. The search engine serves Spark Electrician Services, not the public.
And so - the next time you're tempted to say - 'this company must be good because they have a high rating' - on any search engine or directory service, be ready to do your homework to verify it. Check if a permit is required, make sure the personnel are properly licensed, insist on proof of insurance.
Or you risk crappy work like this and not be able to warn other people.
Wait! You say. You could contact the Better Business Bureau. They will help you. No. They too serve only to promote those that pay them
Review and ratings are a scam. https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2023/03/07/1160721021/why-we-usually-cant-tell-when-a-review-is-fake
