Blockout Blinds Pty Ltd

Avoid! When my blinds were measured (in April) I made very clear that all they needed to do was block out 100% of the light. They could be any colour, shape, model etc. and that they needed to guarantee blackout for me to accept a quote. Cut forward 21 weeks to today and my blinds have finally been installed and they don't even block out the light. They require a bottom channel which was never even offered by the consultant and light seeps in at the top and sides. To add insult to injury they require full payment before installation (successful or not) meaning they have had a significant amount of money we could have used, earned interest off etc for 3 months now since their first attempt at installation (blinds were measured incorrectly). Communication has been terrible. The only contact I've had despite all the issues has been the times when I waited a week expecting them to call and in the end called them to chase things up. I genuinely thought they were shut down in the pandemic only to call them and be told "no we've been deemed essential." In that case, why haven't I heard anything about the blinds I've been waiting over 5 months for? Why wasn't I phoned to follow up after the initial installation failed? Why was I told it would take 3 weeks after that date only to hear nothing for 3 months?
I genuinely regret not spending the extra few hundred dollars and going with Screenaway.

Approximate cost: $1300

NEVER EVER AGAIN!

Our journey started in November 2020 and our review is not influenced by timing delays due to Covid restrictions AT ALL.

The person who came to quote was very nice but never had everything we wanted to look at even after specifying we wanted a particular colour of mount and pulley for our blinds. We ended up having to have the head office post us colour samples in order to get to see it. You would think they would supply their sales people with everything they need to do their job properly? All we wanted was a cream base and cord - seems pretty basic and standard to me?

They never provide their installers with everything they need to do the job to completeness. We have had them back so many times now I have lost count and are still having issues.

1st visit - installed outdoor blinds, half of which stopped opening after 2-3 weeks. Had to wait a month to get someone out just to get our blinds to open (this happened on visit 4 or 5). They applied silicone spray and brute force. We had to provide our own silicone spray though as he showed up with a practically empty can and no back up? If it's something they use on a regular basis - shouldn't they have a proper supply of it?
2nd visit - installed a broken blind, took 3 more visits to get this one fixed
3rd visit - installed 7 blinds with missing parts, 2 blinds were too short (but they still installed them) and several of the cords were too long and had to be re-ordered, still didn't fix the initial broken blind
4th visit - installed a blind with another wrong length cord, didn't come prepared to fix anything else??? Found out that our 2 replacement blinds for the 2 blinds that were too short hadn't even been ordered???
5th visit - replaced the 2 blinds that were too short, 3 wrong length cords, fixed the original broken blind, fixed outdoor blinds. Outcome - still have 7 blinds missing parts
6th visit - installed missing parts from only 5 of the 7 blinds missing parts, re-installed them so tightly that we can't use them properly and twisted one of the cords on installation AND left dirty hand prints all over our new blinds

Now I'm pretty sure there is another visit in there somewhere - where they came ill-prepared and left without fixing everything that needed to be fixed. Bottom line is after over $14k and 9 months we are still waiting for a satisfactory result!

What an utter disappointment!

Read the one star reviews people - this is a pretty consistent theme in them and I wished I would have looked past the very deceptive "4 star" overall review on this site!

Still don't know how they are still scored so highly when I look at all the 1 star reviews. Must be from all the "padded" reviews before they started putting controls in place for these things!

Approximate cost: $14000

Avoid at any cost!
The poorest customer service ever.
I installed a retractable screen about 3 years ago based on their promise of a lifetime guarantee. After a while, the mesh started to deteriorate and small tears appeared. I approached the company in December 2020. It took them seven months to send an inspector to evaluate the screen, after HUNDREDS of emails and follow-up phone calls. Finally, they refused to fix the issue claiming the screen had some dirt on it. How on earth an outside screen can be perfectily clean when dust is unavoidable. Even their inspector warned me that you would not get anywhere with them as they outsource their services. If you have purchased the screen directly from the manufacturer your customer service would have been totally different.

Approximate cost: $1500

We’re currently in our 8th month since initially ordering and paying a 50% deposit, and the install is still not quite finished.

Although there was a period of 3 months where Victoria was under COVID lockdown, it’s still 5 months and counting. They initially check measured our plantation shutters prior to lockdown, however unbeknownst to me, forgot to measure our roller blinds. After lockdown I waited a month and then called them only to for them to suddenly realise that they’d forgotten the roller blind check measure (lucky I called, or I’d still be waiting I reckon).

Installation day finally arrived on the 25th January, and that all went well, except the part where two of the blinds were rolled the wrong way, one of the blinds fell to the ground when I tried to use it!

I called them about the fallen blind, and they’d told me about a 1-2 week wait for the re-rolled blinds, and we agreed to get all the issues rectified at once. I get a call to book the rectification, and they tell me that the earliest I could get it done was the 23rd February, so basically another month! I asked, given the disgraceful level of organisation and inconvenience they’d caused, why I wouldn’t be going to the ‘as soon as possible’ install time slot, and was told that they already had customers booked for install and weren’t prepared to shuffle things around. I suppose they’re happy to continue to provide terrible service to someone they’ve already annoyed???

The product itself is fine, however it is absolutely overshadowed by their lack of ability in all other areas.

I am very very angry and disappointed with this company. I ordered roller shutters in early October 2020. It took a month to get the check measure done but I was assured they would be installed by early December 2020. Well that came and went and I heard nothing from them. When I called to query why I had not heard from them they simply said ‘Oh, your install is down for 21 January 2021’. All of this with a 50% deposit of my $4500 purchase in their hand!
Then January comes around and I’m told unless I pay the remaining amount a week before install my date will be cancelled. No consideration for the stress and inconvenience caused to me at all. Left with no choice I paid this.
The day finally arrives......but at 9.15am I’m called and told the installers van has broken down and my install needs to be rescheduled to 31 January. Is there only 1 installer for the whole company? Why can’t another be sent in their place and why is my install then going to take a further 10 days to happen?? No explanation given. Now I have to try and reorganize the electrician again. Oh didn’t I tell you they sell motorized shutters but don’t do the electrics so they can actually work when they are installed. I feel like I’m being held prisoner by this company as they now have all my money while I’m left with promises that I don’t believe. I return to work at the start of February so if they let me down again I won’t be able to be here to let them in ( the only access to where these need to be installed is by going through my house).

Approximate cost: $4500

I had a great experience, from Kent the sales man to Ian, who did the installation. I got 2 windows done with double roller blinds, one sheer and one blockout. They did it within the timeframe they had said at the beginning, and with the extra conditions I asked for. All went smooth for me!

Do not recommend this company
After ordering blinds in February and constantly chasing them up for delivery and installation date them not calling me, finally after easter after ringing them again informed blinds are ready but payment to be paid in full prior to installation. Informed them i would like to see goods installed and working prior to payment. Informed you dont buy a washing machine before seeing if it works. Constantly arguing this point contacted consumer affairs who informed me my rights. As i have paid by credit card i was able to be refunded my deposit by Visa Australia if they did not dispute the claim which they didnt i wonder why. This company lost a sale of over $30000.00 even thou we said once installed i will call them with a credit card for full payment. Now they have blinds custom made that will find hard to get rid of

Approximate cost: $3000

NEVER DEAL WITH THIS COMPANY
The consultant came out to quote on two townhouses, it took him 4 weeks to write up the quote. I emailed him NUMEROUS times requesting a written quote. Instead, he made an appointment to supposedly show materials used for the job, instead, giving me a $$$ value, telling me that everything I requested was on the quote (which it wasn’t). Guaranteed anything you can imagine just to get the job.
Idiotically I committed......now the DRAMA begins!
1. Trying to organize a check measure with their supposed installers was a nightmare. 3hrs turnaround for anyone to show up....that’s if they did...which they sometimes don't, so I was left waiting.
2. Installer when turns up, can’t even tell if a window has been finished off.
3. Customer Consultants when booking the check measure didn’t even know the job, didn’t have the right paperwork to give to the installer to do a proper check measure!
4. When trying to escalate my issues to upper management.........REFUSING to pass me onto someone who can assist, instead, putting me on hold and giving me the run around, so eventually I give up.
5. My WHOLE order is a huge mess and NOBODY is willing to acknowledge there is a problem with their Customer Service Consultants, Sales Consultants and their Installers.

Given they still cannot give me a concrete quote, they are holding my deposit and refusing to give my money back.

Will be seeking ACCC assistance and legal action against the company!

Approximate cost: $220000

Worst service I have ever experienced. This ordeal has been ongoing since October 2017 when I first ordered. The consultant was lovely until I ordered, then received absolutely no communication (including refusing to respond to mine). Check measure came and the consultant changed my order so that the shutters didn't fit and were the wrong design. Installers have now been back for the third time today and have still failed to fix the issues. I have now spoken to 10 different people at Blockout Blinds, they have refused to deal with my issues or escalate my case to Management. Management and consultants have refused to return calls, emails and correspondence on countless occasions. Also refuse to confirm anything in writing. Currently still have issues with my plantation shutters - including gaps in the frames and ill fitting shutters. 7 months and counting. NEVER use Blockout Blinds, use ANY OTHER company.

Approximate cost: $3000

Really disappointed on the installation date. I would give negative stars if I could. They promised guaranteed installation date and apparently incomplete installation seems ok on their side. They took full amount on the day but did not install everything. Its been a month since then and they are still pushing me around and still can not provide a date of final installation.

Very very disappointed on the service provided. I DO NOT recommend them.

Would recommend the professional service and there consultant was very helpful with all the different styles to suit

Approximate cost: $2600

Blockoutblinds were advertising in our local shopping centre
and their rates were competitive with another blind company
we asked to quote. We were particularly happy with Mark's
nice manner and good workmanship. All the staff we dealt
with - Elliott, the consultant and the office ladies were
pleasant and efficient so we could recommend the company
to others.

I needed to replace a roller blind on window that was not of a standard size. I asked around at other companies, they generally told me to measure it myself and install myself, otherwise costs were high for them to visit . I was worried not getting the measurements exactly correct myself.
I saw Blockout Blinds at the shopping center and they were only too happy to come out and measure my window.

Jarrod measured and consulted, and Mark installed, both very professionally, and promptly on time. I'm very happy with the blind. Jarrod suggested fabric to fit my budget and worked with me and what I needed. Mark was a delight to chat with.

I definitely recommend Blockout Blinds and will use again.

Blockout blinds has done a wonderful job with taking the stress of customers when it comes to picking a product and payment wise. It was all done in a professional manner and all staff were very friendly and a pleasure to deal with. John our installer who installed my rollers and roman blinds was brilliant, he done a fantastic job and as stated.. left my home cleaner then before, one of the best professional tradesman I have had, a pleasure to have in my home. The blinds itself is above standards very happy.
I will definitely recommend blockout blinds to family and friends.

Jarrad and Mark did a great job, all was measured up well and the new blinds look fantastic. Would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone else

I have had my blind up for a month now and just love it! Brett was very easy to deal with during the measure and quote, and Mark did a perfect job installing it and explaining how to care for my blind. The whole experience was excellent. I especially loved that they email you photos of who is coming to your house so you know who to expect. I will happily use them again!

Brett was very easy to deal with and explained everything well, he met all of our requirements. The blinds arrived after just a week and were installed just days later by mark. Mark came down later in the evening to get the blinds installed as soon as possible, at a time that suited us. he was friendly and efficient. we are very happy with our new blinds they look great. would highly recommend blockout blinds!

Approximate cost: $1130

Jarrad and Mark did an amazing job. Jarrad measured up, then Mark came out by himself and with in an hour and a half 2 double and 5 single blinds were up on the walls and fully working.

The advice given was superb and the quality of the finished product unbelievable. Love our new black Venetian and roller blinds.

Brett and Mark, measured and fitted new outside awnings. Very happy with both service and pric Will happily use again

"Brett and Mark installed new indoor blinds in my new home in Woodend and they were really great to deal with. I am very happy with the blinds and with their service." Patricia

The above review was written by my mum, and posted by me.

Great company to deal with. Jarryd the consultant was extremely helpful in giving us tips and showing us photos to help us select our colours. He was professional at all times and measured all windows perfectly. The blinds were ready a couple of weeks earlier than expected :). Mark the installer was professional and on time doing a great job installing them in no time at all. All blinds fitted perfectly with no issues. Gladly would recommend these guys to family and friends and will definitely use them again.

The initial consultation was extremely helpful and informative and the advice we received from Jarryd was most appreciated. Both of our installers did an amazing and thorough job. Thankyou!

Blockout blinds have been very great to deal with. Elliott was very helpfully with choosing the right blind and very patient. Mark has done a great job putting in all the blinds. Very nice people and impress with the quick service

Approximate cost: $6000

Blockout blinds have been very great to deal with from the start. Brett from Bendigo was very quick to come out for a quote and Mark has done a great job putting up our awning. Very impress with the quick service

Approximate cost: $580

We received good service and advice when Brett from Bendigo came to do our measure and quote. We also got a good discount.
Mark did a great job installing our blinds. He arrived on time and worked quickly. Best of all, he cleaned up when he had finished and removed the rubbish.

Blockout blinds were great from the first phone call for a quote to only a couple of weeks to installation, Brett from Bendigo was great and very knowledgeable when carrying out the quote. They bet most quotes I got by almost half, and they only took a couple of week the be manufactured. Mark that carried out the installation did so in a very professional manner, and was right on time and only took a couple of hours to install. All in all the whole process was very professional with easy going people that deliver a great product.

We had our awning installed today & it was quick & easy. Should have been a two person job as poor Mark was doing it on his own in the heat of the day so I offered him a big cold drink of water. Brett was great in organising it all & giving us our quote. We love our awning & the effect it has brought to our living room. It has cooled down the biggest room in our house & cut down on the brightness so now I can't wait to walk my 5week old out in the morning & be able to enjoy this room in our house without him getting too hot & bothered. We will be returning customers. Thank you

HAD JARRYD FIRST COME TO MEASURE AND QUOTE FOR MY ROLLER BLINDS, AND MARK TO INSTALL.
BOTH VERY PROFESSIONAL AND EASY TO DEAL WITH.
COMPANY VERY PROFESSIONAL IN GENERAL WITH PROMPT INVOICE EMAILS AND FOLLOR UP PHONE CALLS.
GREAT JOB DONE AND VERY HAPPY WITH THE PRODUCT.
WILL BE USING AGAIN FOR WINDOW SHUTTERS SHORTLY.

We have been using Blockout Blinds for modern affordable blinds in the last two houses we have owned. Jared has been the personal contact in all cases (we have had him to our house four times), and he has given us great advice that has worked well on all occasions. He guided us through what we needed, and suggested the most appropriate textures and colours for our needs. The installation has always been impeccable, with Mark recently installing three new double system blinds. Now our home is smart and well screened.

Approximate cost: $1200

Josh from Blockout Blinds who came out to measure up was very friendly and professional. My blinds did not get installed as previously arranged due to the Christmas break. When it came time to install them, there was a problem with my order. Blockout kept the communication going so I knew what was going on and they also gave me one of the blinds for free!! An amazing outcome. Steve came out to put in the final two blinds and he was also friendly and professional . Thank you Blockout. Vikki