Howdens unit query

RefluentBeans

Okell said:

I think part of the problem is that although Howdens supposedly only "sell" to the trade, they do appear to offer direct to consumers a design service via one of their expert designers "to progress your project with confidence".

How To Buy | Buying From Us | Howdens

I think it's all very confusing for the average person who doesn't know about these things...

Assuming the units were bought by the builder on his trade account, I'd say the OP's issue is with their builder and it's their builder's problem to sort out his issues with Howdens

Yeah I agree. It's a confusing situation. I suppose the question is, if the kitchen was designed by Howdens, and they (obviously) recommended Howdens products, and these recommendations were unsuitable - should the builder have picked up on that under the 'services with reasonable care and skill' provision? 

Howdens offer guarantees on their products - but the warranty does not include 'swelling due to excessive moisture or other neglect'. I would argue that if the product was designed to go adjacent to the sink, that's not excessive moisture. But I guess that the answer in terms of the guarantee - they'll likely reject it. 

So yes - the contract lies with the builder and will have to be actioned through them, as that is who ultimately sold the kitchen. 

born_again

Just re reading OP posts.

 But the lady I spoke to said she thinks they’ll say it’s water damage as this unit is next to the sink. surely If their designer designed our kitchen and put this unit next to the sink this would be considered? 

You always have units under sinks, so you have to be careful that water does not splash over too much & if it does dry quickly.

In reality it needs someone to come out & view it. But do feel this is down to the builder, given builder dealt directly with Howdens.
While Howdens designed, they had nothing to do with installation of the kitchen or actual payment from the OP.

OP's contract is with who they paid.