Based on looking at the website Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk, it presents itself as a straightforward service provider for gutter cleaning and repair in London. The site offers clear calls to action, details on services, and customer testimonials. However, a closer inspection reveals several areas that require improvement for it to be considered a highly trustworthy and comprehensive online presence, particularly from a stringent, ethical perspective that values transparency and detailed business information.
Here’s an overall review summary:
- Website Transparency: Lacks detailed company registration information, physical address, and specific licensing.
- Service Information: Provides a good overview of services, but specific pricing structures are not immediately clear without contacting them.
- Customer Support: Offers phone contact and a call-back request, which is positive.
- Online Booking/Quoting: The “BOOK ONLINE NOW” and “GET QUOTE NOW” buttons lead to a contact form, not an immediate booking or direct quote system.
- Testimonials: Features testimonials, but linking them all to a generic Google search for “Bentley Roofing and Building” rather than specific Gutter Cleaning London reviews is a red flag for verification.
- Ethical Considerations: While the service itself (gutter cleaning) is permissible, the lack of full transparency regarding business credentials and potentially misleading testimonial links raises questions about thoroughness and full disclosure.
To truly build trust, especially in a digital age where online scams are prevalent, a service provider’s website should offer a robust level of verifiable information. The current setup, while functional, falls short of the gold standard for comprehensive disclosure that many discerning customers and ethical guidelines would expect. It’s a reminder that even for seemingly simple services, the digital storefront needs to convey utmost credibility.
Here are some excellent alternatives for home maintenance services that prioritise clear communication and ethical practices, whether directly or through established platforms:
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Latest Discussions & Reviews:
- Key Features: Connects homeowners with local tradespeople across various services, including gutter cleaning. Tradespeople are reviewed by previous customers.
- Average Price: Varies significantly by job; quotes are provided by tradespeople.
- Pros: Wide network of professionals, customer reviews help vetting, easy to get multiple quotes.
- Cons: Quality can vary between individual tradespeople; requires careful vetting of profiles.
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- Key Features: Vetted and monitored tradespeople with verified reviews. Focuses on quality and reliability.
- Average Price: Depends on the job; quotes directly from trades.
- Pros: Strict vetting process for tradespeople, comprehensive review system, often includes guarantees.
- Cons: Membership fees for tradespeople, which might slightly influence pricing; not every small local firm is listed.
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- Key Features: Government-endorsed quality scheme for trades. Aims to protect consumers and raise industry standards.
- Average Price: No direct pricing; connects to accredited businesses who provide quotes.
- Pros: High level of consumer protection, assurance of quality and reputable businesses, government backing.
- Cons: Fewer listed tradespeople compared to larger directories, primarily a certification body rather than a direct booking platform.
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- Key Features: Post a job, and local tradespeople respond with quotes. Focuses on matching specific project needs.
- Average Price: Varies by project scope and tradesman.
- Pros: User-friendly platform for posting jobs, ability to compare multiple bids, review system in place.
- Cons: Some tradespeople might be less responsive, vetting process is primarily through past customer reviews.
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Local Heroes (powered by British Gas)
- Key Features: Connects customers with local tradespeople for home services, with work guaranteed by British Gas.
- Average Price: Transparent pricing for common jobs; quotes provided for complex tasks.
- Pros: Work guarantee adds a layer of security, easy online booking, vetted professionals.
- Cons: Primarily focused on plumbing, electrics, and heating, though other services are expanding.
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- Key Features: Submit a request for services, and multiple professionals will contact you with quotes.
- Average Price: Highly variable, as it’s a quote-based system.
- Pros: Quick way to get multiple quotes, broad range of services, competitive pricing.
- Cons: Quality of responses can vary; requires more active engagement to filter through quotes.
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- Key Features: Connects customers with vetted local service providers directly through Amazon.
- Average Price: Transparent pricing for predefined services.
- Pros: Convenience of booking through a familiar platform, vetted professionals, Amazon’s A-to-z Guarantee.
- Cons: Limited availability in some areas, selection of service providers might not be as vast as dedicated directories.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
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Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk Review & First Look
When first landing on Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk, the immediate impression is one of a functional, if somewhat basic, service website. The site clearly states its purpose: offering gutter cleaning and repair services across London. Key information such as contact numbers are prominently displayed, which is always a good sign for immediate engagement. However, a deeper dive reveals that while the site aims for a quick service overview, it lacks the detailed transparency often expected from a reputable business in today’s digital landscape.
Initial Impressions and User Experience
The website’s design is clean, with a focus on readability and clear calls to action. The primary message—preventing water damage through proper gutter maintenance—is conveyed effectively. The navigation is straightforward, allowing users to quickly find information about services or contact details. For a user in urgent need of gutter services, this directness could be appealing.
Missing Trust Signals
One of the most significant omissions from an ethical and trust-building standpoint is the lack of verifiable business credentials. There’s no clear mention of the company’s full registered name, company registration number, or a physical business address. While a mobile number is provided, the absence of a fixed address or formal company details can raise questions for those looking for a fully legitimate and traceable business. This is crucial for consumer confidence and compliance with UK business regulations, which generally require businesses to display such information. For instance, consumers often look for a company’s registered address, VAT number, and terms and conditions to feel secure.
Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk Pros & Cons
Analysing Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk reveals both strengths and weaknesses that potential customers should consider. While the service offered is practical and necessary for property maintenance, the website’s presentation of information has areas for improvement, particularly concerning transparency and verifiable claims.
Pros of Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk
The website does highlight several customer-centric benefits that are appealing. Whitegloveremovals.co.uk Review
- Clear Service Offerings: The site explicitly lists services such as residential and commercial gutter cleaning, as well as gutter repair and replacement. This clarity helps potential customers understand what they can expect.
- Convenient Contact Options: A phone number is visible at the top and bottom of every page, alongside options to “BOOK ONLINE NOW” (which leads to a contact form) and “REQUEST A CALL BACK.” This multi-channel approach to contact is user-friendly.
- Stated Customer Benefits: The website mentions “Free quotes over the phone in less than 3 minutes,” “No call out charge,” and “No hourly rate.” These promises are attractive to customers concerned about hidden costs. The inclusion of “FREE minor repairs with all Gutter Cleaning Work” is also a notable value-add.
- Proof of Work: The promise of a “digital photo as proof of work” is a good feature that helps build trust and accountability, particularly for services where the work area (e.g., gutters) is not easily visible to the customer.
- Stated Professionalism: Claims of “Fully insured, HSE accredited, uniformed friendly staff” are important for reassuring customers about the professionalism and safety standards of the service.
- Service Area Clarity: The website clearly lists the areas covered, including Central London, South West London, South East London, North East London, North West London, and Surrey, which helps users quickly determine if the service is available to them.
Cons of Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk
Despite the pros, several aspects of the website raise concerns regarding full transparency and digital trustworthiness.
- Ambiguous Testimonial Links: The testimonials from “Jess Wills,” “Steven Jones,” “Justin Disney,” and “Ash Hewette” are linked to a Google search for “Bentley Roofing and Building” and a specific Google Maps CID, rather than directly to verified reviews for Gutter Cleaning London itself. This creates confusion and makes it difficult to verify if these testimonials truly relate to the gutter cleaning service provided by this specific entity. Trusted websites typically link directly to their own verified review platforms (e.g., Trustpilot, Google My Business profile for the specific company, or a dedicated reviews page).
- Lack of Company Information: As previously noted, the absence of a registered company name, company registration number, and a physical trading address on the homepage (or readily accessible elsewhere) is a significant drawback. UK businesses are generally required to provide this information to ensure transparency and accountability.
- Limited Online Booking Functionality: While there’s a “BOOK ONLINE NOW” button, it directs to a contact form rather than an actual online booking system with available slots and instant confirmation. This can be misleading for users expecting to complete a booking process online.
- No Clear Pricing Structure: The website offers free quotes, but no indicative pricing or typical service costs are provided. While customised quotes are standard for services, a general range or an explanation of factors influencing price could enhance transparency.
- Outdated Promotion: The “Special Savings! Book during March 2021 and get 10% Off!” indicates that the promotions section of the website is not regularly updated. This suggests a lack of active maintenance for certain parts of the site, which can detract from a professional image.
- Generic Legal Information: There is no readily available privacy policy, terms and conditions, or cookie policy link in the footer or clear navigation. These legal documents are essential for consumer protection and data privacy compliance (e.g., GDPR in the UK).
How to Choose a Reputable Gutter Cleaning Service
Selecting a reliable gutter cleaning service is crucial for protecting your property from water damage. With numerous options available, knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and potential headaches. It’s about finding a service that not only delivers on its promises but also operates with transparency and integrity.
Verifying Professional Credentials
A legitimate and reputable gutter cleaning service should be transparent about its business operations and qualifications. This includes:
- Company Registration: Check if the company is registered with Companies House in the UK. This provides a level of legitimacy and allows you to confirm their legal existence. A company registration number should ideally be displayed on their website.
- Insurance: Ensure the company carries adequate public liability insurance. This protects you in case of any damage to your property or injury sustained during the work. Reputable companies will readily provide proof of insurance upon request.
- Accreditations: Look for accreditations from relevant industry bodies or health and safety organisations (e.g., HSE accreditation mentioned by Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk). While not always mandatory, these accreditations demonstrate a commitment to safety and professional standards.
- Physical Address: A verifiable physical business address, even if it’s an office rather than a shopfront, adds to credibility. Companies operating solely from a mobile number or generic email can be harder to track if issues arise.
Assessing Online Presence and Reviews
In today’s digital age, a strong and verifiable online presence is key to trustworthiness.
- Genuine Testimonials: Look for reviews on independent platforms such as Google My Business, Trustpilot, Checkatrade, or Rated People. Be wary of websites that only feature testimonials without external links or those that link to unrelated businesses, as seen with Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk’s questionable review links. Genuine reviews often include specific details about the service and the customer’s experience.
- Active Social Media (Optional but helpful): While not essential, an active social media presence can sometimes provide insights into a company’s operations, customer interactions, and recent work.
- Professional Website: A well-maintained website that is easy to navigate, provides clear information, and is free of outdated content (like old promotions from years ago) reflects positively on the company’s professionalism. Check for essential legal pages like a privacy policy, terms and conditions, and a cookie policy, which are crucial for data protection and consumer rights.
Understanding Service Scope and Pricing
Before committing to a service, ensure you have a clear understanding of what’s included and how pricing works. Basilsdogfood.co.uk Review
- Detailed Quotes: Reputable companies should provide a detailed, no-obligation quote that clearly outlines the scope of work, materials (if any), and the total cost. Be cautious of services that provide only vague estimates or insist on an hourly rate without a clear projected total.
- What’s Included: Ask what exactly is included in the service. Does it cover just cleaning, or also minor repairs? What about debris removal? Are there any hidden charges for access equipment or disposal?
- Guarantees and Warranties: Inquire about any guarantees on the work performed, especially for repairs. A company confident in its service will often offer a short-term guarantee.
By meticulously checking these aspects, you can significantly increase your chances of hiring a reliable and ethical gutter cleaning service that will protect your property effectively and professionally. According to a 2022 survey by the UK’s Federation of Master Builders, 78% of homeowners prioritise checking a builder’s online reviews and references before hiring them, underscoring the importance of transparent digital footprints.
Gutter Cleaning and Property Maintenance: An Ethical Perspective
Property maintenance, particularly gutter cleaning, is not just about aesthetics; it’s a critical act of preservation that aligns well with principles of responsible stewardship. From an ethical standpoint, ensuring your property is well-maintained is a form of safeguarding assets and preventing potential harm to yourself, your family, and even neighbours.
The Importance of Proactive Maintenance
Neglecting property maintenance, such as blocked gutters, can lead to significant problems:
- Structural Damage: Water cascading over blocked gutters can seep into foundations, walls, and basements, causing dampness, mould, and structural integrity issues. The cost of repairing water damage to a property can be substantial, often running into thousands of pounds, according to industry reports.
- Health Hazards: Damp and mould resulting from water ingress can pose serious health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions.
- Pest Infestation: Stagnant water and debris in gutters can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests.
- Neighbourly Impact: Unmanaged water runoff can sometimes affect neighbouring properties, leading to disputes and potential legal issues.
Ethically, proactive maintenance is about fulfilling a duty of care towards one’s property and community. It prevents waste (of resources due to damage), reduces harm, and promotes overall well-being. This aligns with the concept of preserving what one has been blessed with, avoiding negligence, and upholding societal harmony.
Choosing Services with Integrity
When selecting a service provider for property maintenance, opting for those who demonstrate integrity is crucial. This means businesses that are: Goldlewisharristours.co.uk Review
- Transparent: Clearly state their terms, pricing, and business credentials. This builds trust and ensures fair dealings.
- Competent: Employ skilled and experienced staff who can perform the work safely and effectively. Certifications and accreditations (like HSE accreditation for safety in the UK) are good indicators.
- Accountable: Offer guarantees for their work and are responsive to customer concerns. The provision of “digital photos as proof of work” is a good example of accountability.
- Fair: Do not engage in deceptive practices or overcharge for services. Businesses should operate with clear pricing models, even if quotes are personalised.
In the UK, consumer protection laws and trading standards bodies exist to ensure businesses adhere to ethical practices. For instance, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 states that services must be provided with reasonable care and skill, at a reasonable price, and within a reasonable time. A company demonstrating these qualities, both in its online presence and service delivery, embodies ethical business conduct.
guttercleaninglondon.co.uk vs. Reputable Local Services
When evaluating Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk, it’s insightful to compare its offering and digital presentation against what one might expect from other reputable local gutter cleaning services or established platforms that connect customers with tradespeople in the UK. This comparison highlights areas where Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk could enhance its credibility and customer trust.
Transparency and Verification
Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk:
- Limited Business Information: Lacks a clear company registration number, full legal name, or physical address. This is a significant point of concern for verification. While it mentions being “Fully insured, HSE accredited,” there’s no readily available documentation or verifiable links to these claims on the website.
- Questionable Testimonial Links: The testimonials provided link to a generic Google search for “Bentley Roofing and Building” and not directly to verified reviews for Gutter Cleaning London. This weakens the credibility of the displayed testimonials.
- Outdated Promotions: The “March 2021” promotion suggests a lack of consistent website maintenance for certain sections, potentially giving an impression of neglect.
Reputable Local Services (e.g., via Checkatrade, TrustMark, MyBuilder):
- Comprehensive Business Details: These platforms typically require tradespeople to provide full company details, including registration numbers, VAT numbers, and physical addresses, which are often displayed on their profiles.
- Verified Reviews: Reviews on these platforms are rigorously vetted, often requiring proof of job completion before a review can be posted. Reviews are tied directly to the specific tradesperson or company, making them highly credible.
- Professional Accreditations: Tradespeople listed on platforms like TrustMark undergo strict vetting processes to ensure they meet government-endorsed quality standards, which are clearly displayed.
- Up-to-date Content: Professional service providers and platforms maintain their online presence with current information, offers, and service updates.
Pricing and Booking Clarity
Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk: Morethanclearance.co.uk Review
- Quote-Based: Offers “free quotes over the phone” but no indicative pricing or online estimation tool. The “BOOK ONLINE NOW” button leads to a contact form, not an immediate booking system. This means the user cannot get a sense of cost or availability without direct interaction.
- No Online Scheduling: The absence of a real-time booking calendar means convenience is limited; customers must wait for a callback or quote.
Reputable Local Services/Platforms:
- Transparent Pricing (often): Many local services or platforms provide average pricing for common jobs or clear rate cards. Some even offer instant online quotes based on basic property details.
- Online Booking/Scheduling: Many modern service providers offer online booking systems where customers can select a date and time, often receiving instant confirmation. This streamlines the customer journey.
Customer Support and Engagement
Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk:
- Direct Phone Contact: Provides a direct mobile number, which is good for immediate queries.
- Callback Request: A “REQUEST A CALL BACK” feature offers convenience for customers.
- Limited Online Support: No apparent live chat or extensive FAQ section for self-service common queries.
Reputable Local Services/Platforms:
- Diverse Contact Channels: Often include phone, email, live chat, and comprehensive FAQ sections.
- Responsive Support: Businesses on reputable platforms are often reviewed on their responsiveness and customer service quality.
- Dispute Resolution: Larger platforms sometimes offer dispute resolution services to mediate issues between customers and tradespeople.
In conclusion, while Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk offers a clear service and some appealing promises, its digital transparency and verification measures fall short compared to the standards set by established directories and highly reputable local businesses. The discrepancies in testimonial links and lack of clear company registration details are particular areas of concern that users seeking maximum trust and security should be aware of.
Understanding Gutter Health and Maintenance
Gutter health is far more critical to the longevity and integrity of your property than many realise. Often overlooked, a properly functioning gutter system is the first line of defence against water damage, which can be both extensive and expensive to repair. Understanding the common issues and the importance of regular maintenance is key to protecting your investment. Leadlightwindows.co.uk Review
Common Gutter Problems and Their Impact
Blocked or damaged gutters are a leading cause of property damage, particularly in the UK with its frequent rainfall.
- Overflowing Gutters: The most common sign of a blockage. Water spills over the sides, drenching walls, windows, and foundations. This can lead to:
- Damp Patches and Mould: Water soaking into brickwork can cause internal dampness, leading to unsightly mould growth, which is detrimental to indoor air quality and can trigger allergies or respiratory issues.
- Foundation Damage: Persistent water pooling around the base of the house can saturate the soil, leading to hydrostatic pressure that compromises the foundation, potentially causing cracks and structural instability. According to the Association of British Insurers, water damage claims are one of the most frequent types of property insurance claims in the UK.
- Leaking Gutters: Cracks, loose joints, or rusted sections can lead to water escaping before reaching the downpipe.
- Fascia and Soffit Rot: Water can seep into the timber fascia and soffit boards, causing them to rot, weakening the roofline support.
- Damage to Landscaping: Constant drips can erode garden beds, paths, and driveways.
- Sagging Gutters: Gutters pulling away from the fascia often indicate blockages, excessive weight from water/debris, or failing brackets.
- Misalignment: Sagging can alter the gutter’s pitch, preventing proper drainage and exacerbating overflow issues.
- Increased Stress on Structure: The added weight of water and debris puts undue stress on the roofline, potentially damaging roof tiles or the structural integrity of the eaves.
The Benefits of Regular Gutter Cleaning
Preventative maintenance is always more cost-effective than reactive repairs.
- Prevents Costly Repairs: Regular cleaning (typically once or twice a year, or more frequently if surrounded by trees) removes leaves, moss, and other debris before they cause blockages. This can save homeowners hundreds, if not thousands, in potential water damage repairs. Data from UK property maintenance firms suggests that routine gutter cleaning can reduce the risk of major water damage incidents by up to 80%.
- Extends Gutter Lifespan: By removing corrosive debris and preventing excessive weight, regular cleaning helps to preserve the integrity of the guttering material (PVC, cast iron, aluminium), extending its functional lifespan.
- Protects Foundations and Landscaping: Ensures water is directed away from the property’s base, protecting foundations, preventing soil erosion, and preserving garden beds.
- Maintains Property Value: A well-maintained exterior contributes significantly to a property’s curb appeal and overall market value. Potential buyers will be deterred by visible signs of water damage or neglect.
- Reduces Pest Problems: Eliminates stagnant water, which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects, and removes debris that can attract rodents.
Investing in regular gutter cleaning is a smart, ethical choice for any property owner, safeguarding their investment and ensuring the long-term health of their home.
FAQ
What services does Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk offer?
Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk primarily offers residential and commercial gutter cleaning services, as well as gutter repair and replacement for properties across London and Surrey.
How can I get a quote from Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk?
You can get a quote by calling their provided phone number (07880 904708) or by filling out the contact form on their website and requesting a callback. They claim to provide free quotes in less than 3 minutes over the phone. Hockeringmotorservices.co.uk Review
Does Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk charge a call-out fee?
No, Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk explicitly states that they have “No call out charge” and “No hourly rate,” focusing on providing a fixed quote for the job.
Do they provide proof of work after cleaning the gutters?
Yes, Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk claims to provide a “digital photo as proof of work” once the gutter cleaning or repair is completed.
Are the staff at Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk insured?
Yes, the website states that their staff are “Fully insured, HSE accredited, uniformed friendly staff.”
What areas does Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk cover?
They cover Central London, South West London, South East London, North East London, North West London, and Surrey.
Can I book Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk services online?
The “BOOK ONLINE NOW” button on their website directs you to a contact form, not an immediate online booking system with real-time availability. You would need to fill out the form and await a response. Avtronics.co.uk Review
Are there any discounts or special offers available?
The website shows a “Special Savings! Book during March 2021 and get 10% Off!”, but this promotion appears to be outdated, indicating that the offers section may not be regularly updated.
What should I do if my gutters are overflowing?
If your gutters are overflowing, it typically indicates a blockage. You should contact a professional gutter cleaning service like Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk or one of the recommended alternatives immediately to prevent water damage to your property.
How often should gutters be cleaned?
Generally, gutters should be cleaned at least once or twice a year, especially if your property is surrounded by many trees. Properties in areas with heavy foliage may require more frequent cleaning.
What are the risks of not cleaning gutters regularly?
Not cleaning gutters can lead to serious water damage to your property’s foundations, walls, fascias, and soffits. It can also cause dampness, mould, and attract pests, resulting in costly repairs.
Are the testimonials on Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk genuine?
While the website displays testimonials, the links provided for them point to a generic Google search for “Bentley Roofing and Building” rather than specific, verified reviews for Gutter Cleaning London. This makes their direct verification challenging. Todfellows.co.uk Review
Does Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk offer minor repairs with cleaning?
Yes, the website states that they offer “FREE minor repairs with all Gutter Cleaning Work.”
What is HSE accreditation?
HSE accreditation refers to compliance with Health and Safety Executive standards in the UK, indicating a commitment to health and safety practices on the job.
Can Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk handle commercial properties?
Yes, they explicitly state that they offer both “Residential Gutter Cleaning” and “Commercial Gutter Cleaning.”
Is there a physical address for Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk listed on their website?
No, the website does not display a physical business address or a company registration number on its homepage or readily accessible legal pages.
How long does it take for Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk to respond to a callback request?
The website doesn’t specify a response time for callback requests, but you would generally expect a prompt reply within business hours. Phoneleads.co.uk Review
What alternatives are there to Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk for finding gutter cleaning services?
Reputable alternatives include platforms like Rated People, Checkatrade, TrustMark, MyBuilder, Local Heroes, Bark.com, and Amazon Local Services.
What factors influence the cost of gutter cleaning?
The cost of gutter cleaning can depend on factors such as the size and height of the property, the length of the gutters, the severity of the blockage, and the type of guttering material.
What is the typical business operating hour for Guttercleaninglondon.co.uk?
The website lists their operating hours as 09:00 – 18:00.
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