Fireplace problems - tiles cracking etc....

jlg1

Hi everyone,

I hope I am posting this in the right place.

Anyway - problem is we moved into our home in 2002 we specifically ordered a "fireproof" fireplace from a local centre.

We never lit this fire until 2005 - after the first time lighting it the tiles started to crack.

We immediately contacted the fireplace showroom they were very unhelpful - stating it was under 1 year guarantee and it was "too late" now as it was now 2005.
(But were quick to quote £60 to get it fixed - without looking at it even?) a bit strange?

We are angry that we paid £800 for this fireplace and specifically asked for it to be fireproof.

We have been using it since and now the tiles all across the fire itself and moving towards the front are completely cracked and broken and it would need re-tiled.

I contacted the place again a few weeks back - the guy argued we should have "looked after it" and most things these days have only "one years guarantee" bit of a smart !!!! to be honest - thats how Iwoudl describe his attitude. Though at the same time admitted to my wife "it should have been fireproof and is there not an aluminium surround around it?" (which there isnt its plastic - which has also cracked and peeled off.

He finally agreed to me emailing him photos of the damage - I did so (12 in all! LOL) he said he would "look into it" he never did - I emailed him again - never got a reply.

Anyone know where we stand legally on this?

I am consdiering taking legal advice on it - can they turn a blind eye because of the guarantee issue?

Also our home insurer wont touch it saying it wasnt a "one off" incident it got worse through time?

Anyone any thoughts?

Thanks

James