A Consumer Blacklist?

Please read this short post first, The Customer is NOT Always Right.

Now, fast forward to some time in the future.

A roofing contractor gets a call from a homeowner who wants some work done on his roof. Prior to returning the homeowner's call, the roofer performs a few searches of the potential client's name on the Internet. He learns some interesting things.

This homeowner has a lawsuit pending against a plumber, one against an electrician, and one against a swimming pool maintenance company. The roofer says to himself, "Nope - too much baggage," and chooses not to return the homeowner's calls.


Let's look even further into the future. Same scenario. A potential customer wants some sort of service. What he doesn't know is that there are websites that have been developed that track customer complaints and name names for those who are chronic complainers. Service organizations who are contacted cold by consumers may consult these sites, sort of the way consumers look at the Better Business Bureau to determine poor business practices. If a particular customer's name's on the list, they may just choose to send them packing.

Is there a law that states whomever contacts a business, the business must give them their business? I doubt it, In fact, I think I have seen disclaimers that say, "We have the right to refuse to serve anyone for any reason." No shirt, no shoes, no service.

Where does this leave the consumer? Does this mean if you're wrongfully served, you shouldn't take action in the event that some time in the future there may be a website tracking your activity? I don't think so. The BBB reports companies' track records for serving their customers. I can't speak for others, but I don't think I would boycott a business just because they had one unresolved complaint.

But if you are a chronic complainer, and have nothing better to do than to try to bring suit against everyone who tries to serve you, don't be surprised if some time in the future you may find it difficult to find anyone who wants your business.
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