Independent Inspection Service

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The Furniture Ombudsman provides a service whereby furnishing products or their installation can be assessed by an independent consultant to help in resolving complaints. The service is excellent value for money and is available to customers of retailers who are not registered with The Furniture Ombudsman and also to non-registered companies.

When a complaint turns into a dispute, there are usually several reasons for this, not least of which is that both the consumer and the retailer believe they are right. An independent assessment of the product will help to ensure that both parties know what the problems are and whether there is a valid complaint.

If the dispute reaches court it is almost certain that the court will want a report from an independent consultant so that they can ascertain whether or not the claim is valid.

The types of service that we offer include:

Cover/sample examination: from £125 inc VAT
This low-cost service involves assessing a sample of the product subject to complaint by The Furniture Ombudsman or, where appropriate, testing against relevant British Standards. A sample (e.g. cushion cover or carpet off-cut) is sent to The Furniture Ombudsman and after appropriate assessment or testing, a report is prepared. In some cases, samples showing the problem complained of are required; in others a sample of unused material is necessary and it may not be possible to return some samples.

On-site inspection: from £295 inc VAT (depending on distance travelled etc.)
The Furniture Ombudsman offers full on-site inspection by an independent consultant to provide a report assessing the product in relation to the complaints made. The service is suitable for most types of complaint.

The Furniture Ombudsman has a team of independent consultants based throughout the UK. Whilst the cost of travel is included within the price this naturally reflects the distance one of our consultants will have to travel to undertake the inspection.

Are there any further costs?
Following an examination or on-site inspection, if testing to a British Standard is recommended, then additional costs may apply. Additional costs may also apply if further work beyond the original report, or court attendance is required; details of these charges are available on request.

The Furniture Ombudsman inspections/examinations are independent and it is therefore possible that the report may not find in your favour. The report will not be disclosed to, or discussed with, any third party under any circumstances without the consent of the paying party. If you are interested in using this service and would like further information please contact us.

To find out whether a retailer is registered with The Furniture Ombudsman please check Registered Members.

Retailers registered with The Furniture Ombudsman have automatic access to the inspection services offered at a reduced rate.

For further information, please contact The Furniture Ombudsman on 08701 620 690 or email