Hammonds’ Warranty: Is It Worth It ?
When investing in a fitted wardrobe, the warranty is a crucial factor to consider. It’s your safety net, ensuring your investment is protected for years to come. Hammonds, one of the UK’s leading fitted wardrobe brands, offers a 10-year guarantee that, at first glance, seems competitive. However, upon closer inspection, there are some red flags that potential customers should be aware of. In this blog, we’ll break down Hammonds’ warranty, explain why it feels outdated, and discuss why it might be worth paying extra for a brand like Sharps.
What Does Hammonds’ 10-Year Guarantee Cover?
Hammonds’ warranty promises to cover material failures for up to 10 years, but it comes with a long list of conditions and exclusions. Here’s a summary of the key points:
- Coverage:
- The guarantee covers material failures but excludes wear and tear, natural fading, and functional components like handles, hinges, and drawer runners.
- Conditions:
- The furniture must be installed by Hammonds in the UK.
- You must settle your balance in full before the guarantee takes effect.
- Any issues must be reported within 7 days of installation, or they’ll be assessed under the guarantee terms.
- Exclusions:
- Wear and tear: Not covered.
- Fading: Not covered if caused by sunlight exposure.
- Small items: Handles, hanging rails, and shelf pegs are not covered.
- Adjustments: Door and drawer adjustments are not covered after 30 days.
- Call-out charges: A £100 fee applies for inspections, which is only refunded if the claim is valid.
- Aftercare Service:
- For £230 per room/visit, Hammonds offers an aftercare service to address issues like door adjustments, caulking, and small item replacements.
Why Hammonds’ Warranty Feels Outdated
While Hammonds’ 10-year guarantee might sound impressive, there are several reasons why it feels outdated and less customer-friendly compared to competitors like Sharps:
- Lack of Transparency:
- The warranty document provided is dated 26th December 2014, and no updated version is available on their website. This raises questions about whether the terms have changed or if they’re still relevant in 2024.
- Subcontracted Fitters:
- Hammonds uses subcontracted fitters for installations, which can lead to inconsistencies in quality. If something goes wrong, it’s unclear who is responsible – Hammonds or the subcontractor.
- Limited Coverage:
- The warranty excludes many common issues, such as wear and tear, fading, and functional components. This means you could be left paying for repairs out of pocket.
- Call-Out Charges:
- The £100 call-out fee for inspections feels outdated and unfair, especially when other brands offer free assessments.
How Does Hammonds Compare to Sharps?
Let’s compare Hammonds’ warranty to Sharps’ 15-year guarantee:
| Feature | Hammonds | Sharps |
|---|---|---|
| Guarantee Length | 10 Years | 15 Years |
| Coverage | Materials only | Materials, doors, drawers, hinges |
| Wear and Tear | Not covered | Covered |
| Fading | Not covered | Covered |
| Call-Out Fees | £100 (refundable if valid) | Free |
| Installation | Subcontracted fitters | In-house fitters |
As you can see, Sharps offers longer coverage, broader protection, and a more customer-friendly approach.
Why It Might Be Worth Paying Extra for Sharps
While Hammonds is a more budget-friendly option, the limitations of their warranty and the use of subcontracted fitters might make it worth paying extra for a brand like Sharps. Here’s why:
- Comprehensive Coverage:
- Sharps’ 15-year guarantee covers materials, doors, drawers, and hinges, giving you peace of mind for years to come.
- In-House Fitters:
- Sharps uses in-house fitters, ensuring a consistent, high-quality installation.
- No Hidden Fees:
- Sharps doesn’t charge call-out fees for warranty claims, making the process hassle-free.
- Customer Satisfaction:
- Sharps has a strong reputation for honouring their warranty and providing excellent customer service.
Final Thoughts
Hammonds’ 10-year guarantee feels outdated and limited compared to competitors like Sharps. While it might save you money upfront, the lack of transparency, subcontracted fitters, and limited coverage could cost you more in the long run.
If you’re looking for a fitted wardrobe that offers long-term peace of mind, it might be worth paying extra for a brand like Sharps. Their 15-year guarantee, comprehensive coverage, and in-house fitters make them a standout choice for homeowners.
At WardrobeCompare, we’re here to help you make the best decision for your home. Compare quotes from Sharps, Hammonds, and other leading brands today and save £1,000s!
