I generally like these type of shops and sign up for as many as I can. I had a situation recently that occurred for the first time, and would like input as to how some of you more seasoned shoppers might have handled it.
Scenario: Approved for a small apartment shop, instructed to call ahead and evaluate the phone conversation and make appointment, but the paperwork had the wrong number. So, I emailed the MSC and asked if they wanted to provide a correct phone number or have me google it. The MSC corrected the phone number the next day, so I tried to call twice (no answer) before leaving a message. The shop deadline was on the following day, but I hadn't spoken with anyone, and no one had returned my call. I called once more and left another message on the day the shop was due.
Here's where it gets tricky. I emailed the MSC and asked if I could have the shop extended. The MSC emailed back and said that per the guidelines, I was allowed to make an on-site visit and upload a picture of the signage to prove I had been there. I looked over the guidelines and that stipulation was not in there. However, I conducted the shop as told and went on-site, found the office was closed and locked, took picture of signage, and answered "NO" on the rest of the questions, wrote up a detailed timeline, offered to try again next week in my paperwork submission, and submitted the shop.
This doesn't feel right in my gut, but as the shop deadline wasn't extended, I felt like I had no choice but to submit as is. Any suggestions? I hate to have this shop declined, because I felt I did my best effort.