In Association with London and Essex Genealogy

.:: Making an enquiry

What happens when I make an enquiry?

First of all thank you for your interest in my web site and my services! I have many happy customers and have fulfilled a large number of projects, so I will be able to help you too!
So to business. You can make an enquiry about my services either by using my On-line Request Form or by directly. When I receive your e-mail I will only answer it of an evening, this means that you are mostly likely to get a reply the next day. During very busy periods I may take up to two weeks to reply, but this is rare and I do my utmost to get back to people as quickly as possible. Obviously during the day I am out researching so I try to keep e-mails to a minimum of an evening.

What information should I supply in my e-mail?

Researcher's always want to know what research you have done so far, i.e. what certificates you have got and on which Census Returns you have found your family. If possible either supply transcriptions or for the Census supply full references so I can view the originals myself if necessary.
If you are researching an earlier period I will want to know what Parish Registers you have searched and the years you have covered and whether you have looked at Wills and/or other resources.
Once I have assessed your research, I may need to ask you to supply further info if I feel you have not supplied enough.
In short, for the very best consultation and assessment you should supply a very detailed overview of the research you have done so far.

What happens after you have read my e-mail?

After I have assessed your research needs I will respond by letting you know whether I can do the research or not and how much I think it will be. Please note I will not be disclosing my research methods or providing you with any details of what I can do for you. This is a difficult policy and one that has been forced upon me, but unfortunately people have taken advantage of me in the past and I can no longer afford to let that happen.

I am honest about payment quotes, if I think that your request may take several small payments to solve the mystery I will tell you. Also there are no extras or hidden costs I will give you the whole amount for a job as I envisage it at the time, but please be aware that for large and difficult tasks I cannot supply a maximum cost - it is impossible to predict the outcome of historical research.

I hope this as answered some of your questions. You might find more help on my FAQ page.