Understanding Contractors’ Kitchen Remodel Warranties

Remodeling a kitchen is a great way to upgrade the footprint of your home as you increase its overall value. But before the dust settles on your kitchen remodeling project, you will want to protect your wallet from any future unwanted surprises with the right warranty. Kitchen remodel warranties can protect you from any problems caused by defects in the materials used by the contractors, as well as issues caused during the remodeling process, so it’s important to ensure that you’re covered. The following is everything you need to know about kitchen warranties.

Manufacturer vs. Kitchen Remodel Warranties

There are two kitchen warranty types that will typically come into play when you hire a contractor for a remodel: the manufacturer warranty and the contractor warranty. Together, the two warranties should entirely cover your kitchen remodel, from installation to parts to labor.

Manufacturer Warranties: The manufacturer warranty guarantees your kitchen against defects in appliances, cabinets, and counters. It’s important to note that to make sure this warranty is in full effect, you may need to work with a qualified contractor or installer. Additionally, a qualified contractor may be able to answer any questions about the manufacturer and their warranty policies. They can also help you register your warranty and help you get in contact with the manufacturer in case of a malfunction.

Contractor Warranties: This type of warranty comes from your kitchen contractor, and it guarantees their workmanship on the installation. These typically last for a year, but may extend further. Moreso than manufacturer warranties, kitchen contractor warranties are often negotiable to better meet your unique needs. Even if problems of workmanship arise after the kitchen contractor warranty has lapsed, a trusted contractor will usually provide certain support.

The Elements of a Kitchen Remodel Warranty

Both types of kitchen warranties should be presented in detailed documents, available for your review, in the clearest language possible. These documents should list the components covered in the agreement, the duration of the warranty, and how problems will be addressed.

Though the exact terms of your kitchen warranty will vary based on your contractor and manufacturer, here’s a brief list of terms you can expect to see.

Cabinet Warranty: These warranties cover any defects in the materials that are used to make the cabinets, as well as defects caused as a result of the workmanship.

Appliance Warranty: Warranties can cover various kitchen appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, trash compactors, freestanding ice makers, built-in microwaves, and gas and electric ovens.

Countertop Warranty: A countertop warranty that is offered from a manufacturer generally covers defects like holes, discoloring, and pitting of the product. In addition, warranties that are offered by contractors may cover problems like separation from the seams and sink. Depending on the company issuing the warranties, they can cover component parts and labor.

Evaluating Kitchen Warranties

How do you know if a warranty option is right for you? The first step in evaluating a kitchen remodel warranty is to read it carefully. As shown above, there are many aspects of a kitchen warranty, so it’s understandable to feel intimidated. At Modernize, we encourage homeowners to review warranties with their trusted kitchen contractor, who can utilize their experience to answer questions, help explain the differences in warranties from manufacturer to manufacturer and explain any language that you don’t understand.

Here are a few questions to help guide the conversation as you evaluate your kitchen remodel warranties:

• How long is the warranty valid for? The scope of warranties often differs between brands and contractors. Find one that makes you comfortable that you’ll be getting all the bang for your buck in the long term.
• What components does the warranty cover? Be sure to ask what parts are covered in your kitchen remodel warranty. Ideally, all parts will be protected.
• Does the warranty cover labor? Similar to covering the various parts of a kitchen, a manufacturer’s warranty may not cover the labor costs of replacing a defective product. Your kitchen contractor may also have special fees related to labor in their warranty.
• What situations would void the warranty? Kitchen warranties can be voided if your system is mismanaged. Be sure to know what actions you can take to avoid that, such as making repairs yourself.

As with many home renovations, finding the right contracting partner will be a big help in nailing down the specifics of your kitchen remodel warranties. Let Modernize help you find the right kitchen contractor who can help you take the first step of your kitchen remodel journey.