Made to measure blinds mechanism not fit for purpose

VCMCD

I purchased some made to measure roman blinds from Dunelm for a bay window (3 blinds in total) in Dec 2014. I collected them in Jan 2015.

We didn't use them very much to start with. Shortly after using them more frequently in July 16 the larger blind mechanism broke so the blinds could not be pulled up. Dunelm sent it off to their workroom for them to be repaired and they were fitted in August 16.

They broke again in Dec 16, this time it was the cord that broke. Again they agreed to repair them and they were fitted again on 16th Jan 17. Two weeks later the mechanism broke again. I believe this is due to the blind material being too heavy for the mechanism. When I spoke to the store manager she agreed and said that size blind shouldn't be made with thermal lining as it was too heavy, but she would speak to the warehouse and see what they suggest. Their suggestion was the number of cords on the back of the blind should be sufficient and they will repair it again. I would like a refund as I don't think the goods they provided are fit for purpose and don't want the blinds to break within 2 weeks again. (The two smaller blinds have never broke).

They are refusing to give me a refund as I am no longer within the 1 year warranty.

I need to go back to them but wanted some advice so I knew what to say and hopefully get a satisfactory outcome.

SO in summary made to measure blinds purchased 2 years ago, have broken 3 times in the last 7 months, I believe this is because the mechanism is not strong enough for the weight of material. Do I have a right to a refund.

TIA

tykesi

VCMCD wrote: »

SO in summary made to measure blinds purchased 2 years ago, have broken 3 times in the last 7 months, I believe this is because the mechanism is not strong enough for the weight of material. Do I have a right to a refund.

TIA

No right to a full refund. The bit in bold is key, over six months since purchase, the onus is on you to prove that the fault is inherent. You can do this by way of an independent report which you can then present to Dunelm.

Bear in mind though if they do offer a refund they are entitled to reduce the amount they pay you back taking into account the two years' use you've had of it.