After I send out work to an abstractor I always follow up with a phone call to make sure they got the order and get an eta, with the exception of the guys who do my work in NJ and NY, as they call me from the counties before they leave to see if I have more work for them.

I have been very lucky and have great guys who do my work, but if I am dealing with someone new I always follow up.

Maybe this person isn't doing searches any more, etc.. and how would you know if you didn't speak with them?