If the grass really is greener on the other side, it's likely not your fault.

There are many ways consumers get bullied. Some bullies are very obvious, relying upon threats and insinuations that the consumer will suffer one way or the other, if they don't buy the firm's goods or services.

But there are other operators who try to put the squeeze on consumers by using more subtle tactics. Here's an example, supplied by a very conscientious reader.

"I am having trouble with a lawn service that we never got service from," this woman told Action Line. "We did book this company for service in the spring after receiving one of their flyers in the mail. We waited and waited for them to show up. Whenever we called them, they would say; 'You're on our list for this week'.

"We would wait another week. This kept happening for 2 1/2 months. We would explain we were near Upper Ottawa and Fennell, just in case they couldn't find us. We finally gave up and hired another company to take care of our lawn."

Keep in mind, this couple never signed any contract, paid any deposit, or gave this company access to a credit card. Thank goodness.

"A month later, I am sunning in the back yard," she continued. "A man comes around the house and starts spreading something on the lawn. I say; 'You were here two days ago', and the man says, 'I keep going to Stoney Creek and I can't find you'."

Hello?

That's because our reader doesn't live in Stoney Creek or Dundas or anywhere else, but Hamilton Mountain.

"Now, we keep getting bills from these people and they want me to pay for this service and the only service I got from them gave me burn spots on my lawn on the 20 feet the chemical was spread. We have tried to explain to them that we never got the service and cancelled when they never showed up.

"I know what you are thinking ... that with the municipal amalgamation a few years ago; maybe someone else has received the service? We drove down to Brentwood Drive in Stoney Creek and there is no unit 14. I phoned the people in Dundas at 14 Brentwood (we always get their mail), but they do their own lawn. What should I do?"

Well, you definitely should not pay.

I have written about this issue in the past but some of these seasonal firms keep doing business in the same cavalier manner. It is unfortunate, but it is more unfortunate if they can manipulate gullible consumers into paying them.

The solution here is pretty simple. Stick to your guns. You have no contract and you have no proof they performed the service they claim to have performed. Think of it this way. Can you walk into your office and tell your boss you showed up for work all summer ... when your employer has never seen you?

I wouldn't recommend it.

If you have a consumer problem, call 905-526-4665 or e-mail amacrury@thespec.com. Not all calls and letters can be answered.