COMPLAINT: Tom Smith, Charlotte, N.C.

"I hired Wilson's Wilderness Landscaping for landscaping design, services and materials. We signed a contract for services and materials with a $4,000 deposit. Wilson's wasn't able to start our project until seven months later and offered no interest on the $4,000 they held for over half a year.

"From the beginning, Wilson's gave excuses as to why they couldn't start. Their landscaping design wasn't to scale, it was ink pen on cheap spiral notepad paper — very childish and absolutely worthless. We paid $2,877, 23 percent of the total, on nonlabor, nonmaterial and nonplanting activity. A bit excessive, I would say."

DESIRED RESOLUTION:  "I would like to be credited $1,594."

RESPONSE: Chad Wilson, president, Wilson's Wilderness Landscaping

"We feel it is very unfortunate that this scenario has occurred. This gentleman has stated to us he thoroughly enjoyed working with our firm and appreciated our services, quality, design, timeliness and responsiveness during and after the installation process.

"He recently stated that a small tree perished that was explicitly not covered under warranty. The gentleman read and was explained the simple contract he agreed to and declined to have the plants inspected, fertilized and monitored, and also declined a highly recommended irrigation system that allows for a warranty.

"We made specific offers to this gentleman to provide a tree and he declined (outside of our warranty). We have excellent professional standards, team members and a reputation as professional landscape contractors we take pride in."

STATUS: Resolved

Editor's note: The member informed Angie's List that Wilson's replaced the dead tree and he considers the matter resolved.