Optical express

malcol

Hi, in November last year I was invited by Optical Express to attend for suitability for lens replacement surgery. I paid £500 deposit with a 28 working day refund if I was not suitable for treatment. They wanted me to go for a second opinion and referred me to an optical consultant, which cost me a further £220 which I was told was non refundable if not suitable. After a detailed exam he decided I was not suitable for treatment. He copied myself and GP into the letter for OE detailing why.despite several visits to OE I am still waiting for my initial deposit to be returned. They say someone will contact me regarding refund. Short of returning yet again and kicking up a noise can anyone please advise me. Thank you.

molerat

How did you pay ?

Write a letter asking for your money back within 14 days or you will start legal action.

agrinnall

How did you pay the £500? If it was by card then involve your card issuer.

bod1467

I'd be chasing them for the £220 too ... it was THEIR desire for you to get a 2nd opinion. (And I think this was part of the scam ... suck you in, say they "think" you're suitable but you should get a 2nd opinion, and by the way here's the name of someone we recommend, but note that that fee is non-refundable).

malcol

Thanks for all replies, I paid on my debit card and have the amount paid off at the end of the month. I honestly thought I was dealing with a large name reputable company.

andycris3107

malcol wrote: »

Thanks for all replies, I paid on my debit card and have the amount paid off at the end of the month. I honestly thought I was dealing with a large name reputable company.

If you're paying this off at the end of the month it sounds more like a credit card than a debit card. In either case you are covered by Chargeback and I recommend you contact your bank.

I too would be questioning the other £220 however it may be that you will not receive this.

I would also write to OE first (email is fine) stating the term "Notice before action' to inform them of your intent to reclaim the funds. I would also request in this communication that you want the original £500 plus some form of good will for their poor service within X days or you will either perform a chargeback or seek to recover through small claims court.

bod1467

If it's a credit card then Section 75 may be better than chargeback ... S75 is a legal right; chargeback is a benefit usually offered to debit card holders.

malcol

Called into store today, asked for manager.... on lunch break, they took my name and asked me to come back in one hour. On return, the manager had made enquiries to head office and explained someone would call me in the next couple of days.
Headrush!!!!!!!!told her politely but loudly that I wanted my money back to my card by end of business today.
She said not possible, voice up a couple of decibels people looking. She ushered me into a private booth where she telephoned HO and I spoke with someone who apologised for delay in refund and £500 would be credited today. What a bloody saga.

C_Mababejive

I wouldnt say OE were reputable but thats just my opinion. Being optically challenged i always trust to my local independent optom who i know and trust. I agree with #4, i would be going for a refund of all costs.

omgpop1

have $100 voucher email me, i had mine done few months ago and have perfect vision
optical express