New Build Kitchen Worktop Faulty after 2yrs. What are my rights?

Stueym

Hi there MSE Forum!
I have noticed the laminate on worktop start to blow or bubble up at the joint in my work tops (it’s an L shape). My flat is just over it’s 2yr warranty period. Naturally I asked Bellway about fixing this and the representatives first response was that I was over the 2yr period so ‘tough luck’ almost! Admitabbly she hasn’t got to my email to formally address the issue, but I’m guessing that they will try void themselves from any blame.

If they come back saying they won’t do anything what are my options? As I don’t really fancy paying for new worktops when this is no fault of my own!

neilmcl

You need to prove that the fault is either manufacturing related or an issue with the original installation. For example if you allow liquid to lay around in that particular area (is it anywhere near the sink?) then eventually it will seep into the join and lift the laminate regardless of how well the worktop is made or fitted.

pinkshoes

Have you ever allowed water to pool there for a period of time?

Most work tops will bubble at the joint if water remains there for a few minutes.

My kitchen is proof of this! The previous owner kept the worktops immaculate for years, then I put wet things down and forgot about them, and it has now bubbled up! Ohps.

I would put money on this being user error rather than a fault.

m0bov

They should apply clear sealant on exposed ends to prevent ingress of water into the worktop. Might be worth getting someone in to check.

Fosterdog

m0bov wrote: »

They should apply clear sealant on exposed ends to prevent ingress of water into the worktop. Might be worth getting someone in to check.

Sealant won’t stop all water ingress on top of a wooden surface, Wood is flexible so all it would take is a few instances of putting heavy items on top (say a stand mixer or even just a full stockpot) and there would be movement, plus it will naturally expand and contract with heat and humidity. Of course it should limit how much water gets through but it wouldn’t stop it altogether.

Stueym

Thank you for the replies.
The area is not an area that is likely to see regular water, definitely not submerged only when wiping the surfaces down (and I do this with flash wipes)... Hense why it’s taken 2yrs to appear? So I don’t think it’s out of the question to last more than 2yrs! But maybe I have over estimated the lifespan of this kind of thing?
I’ll see what they come back with.