Not insurance or legal advice
Policies and warranties differ by insurer, product, and contract wording. This article offers general themes only. Confirm everything with your broker, insurer, and written paperwork.
Quick reference: who to contact first
| Scenario | Typical first contact | Documents to gather |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet delamination 8 weeks after install | Installer, then manufacturer via warranty route stated on paperwork | Quote, completion photos, serial or batch references |
| Scratch after tenant party | Deposit protection dispute process; insurer only if policy covers malicious damage and excess makes sense | Check-in/out inventories, dated photos |
| Leak from tap under sink | Installer or plumber per scope; trace whether seal or product | Invoice for install, water damage photos |
| Fire or major escape of water | Insurer emergency line as policy requires | Mitigation steps log, police or fire reference if applicable |
Misconception 1: “The manufacturer warranty covers everything”
Manufacturer warranties usually cover product defects under normal domestic use, subject to registration and exclusions. They may exclude improper installation, tenant misuse, water damage from unrelated leaks, or commercial use clauses in some policies. Install workmanship is a separate question from cabinet material failure.
Misconception 2: “My landlord policy automatically covers the new kitchen”
Insurers often need sums insured updates after capital improvements. A higher-spec kitchen may change reinstatement cost. Failure to notify material changes can affect claims. Your schedule of fixtures and completion invoices matter.
Misconception 3: “Tenant damage is always the deposit”
Malicious damage may fall under insurance routes in some cases; wear and tear usually does not. Evidence (check-in inventory, photos, witness statements) decides many disputes. A maintenance ledger helps show what was sound at handover: see tenant-proof kitchen maintenance ledger.
Misconception 4: “Supply-only means the supplier owes install defects”
Under supply-only models, install quality usually sits with your fitter unless the contract says otherwise. Under supply-and-fit, lines blur but exclusions still exist. Keep signed scopes and snag lists.
Practical paperwork checklist
- Warranty registration and serial numbers for appliances
- Completion photos dated at handover
- Gas and electrical certificates where applicable
- Written snag closure from the installer
Related services
For replacement kitchens on rental stock, see landlord kitchens, renovation kitchens, and portfolio and bulk kitchens.