Terms and Conditions
Welcome to London Kent Fireplaces. These Terms and Conditions govern the use of our website (londonkentfireplaces.co.uk) and set out the legally binding agreement for the supply of goods and installation services provided by Sam Godbolt (Sole Trader) trading as London Kent Fireplaces.
By placing an order, accepting a quotation, or using this website, you agree to comply with and be bound by these terms.
1. Basis of Order and Deliveries
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Contingencies and Delays: Orders are accepted and promises for delivery are given conditionally upon our being able to secure the necessary labour and material. We hold no responsibility or liability for delays arising through risks and uncertainties of manufacture, strikes, accidents, or any other causes beyond our reasonable control.
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Risk and Ownership: At the time of delivery, the risk in the goods will pass directly to the buyer. However, until all sums due to the seller for goods supplied have been paid in full, the legal property and ownership of the goods delivered shall not pass to the buyer.
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Storage and Safety: If the buyer takes possession of the goods supplied while the legal ownership remains with the seller, the goods are strictly at the risk of the buyer. The buyer shall be entirely responsible for storing such goods safely and securely at no cost to the seller, and will be held responsible for any loss or damage to the goods while in their possession.
2. Materials, Natural Variations, and Defects
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Natural Variations: Stone, marble, granite, and slate are naturally formed geological materials and cannot be guaranteed for complete uniformity in appearance. These natural materials are sold subject to their usual defects and imperfections, which range from veining and slight colour variations to open brecciations, vents, lists, and other unique formations caused by historical climatic conditions. Natural flaws and colour changes in materials supplied will not be accepted by the company as defects, nor will they justify rejection by the customer.
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Material Processing: Marble and slate are sold subject to natural markings and may be filled, cramped, joined, and polished as necessary during processing. Additionally, no tiles can be guaranteed against crazing (fine surface cracks).
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Replacement Limitations: Any materials returned and accepted by us as defective may be replaced. However, in no case are we liable to replace goods that have been manipulated or altered from the state in which they were originally supplied. We are not liable for any third-party workmanship expended thereon, nor for any consequential damage of any sort.
3. Structural and Installation Limitations
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Flues and Chimneys: The company does not accept any responsibility or liability for any loss or damage arising out of any latent (hidden) defect in the customer’s existing flue or chimney.
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Excluded Works: Unless explicitly specified and agreed upon in writing, the company is not responsible for, nor does it include as part of their contract, the following works:
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Plastering or decorative work.
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Refitting of skirting boards.
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Lifting and refitting of floor coverings.
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Disconnecting or reconnecting electricity and gas supplies.
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Third-Party Contracts: We do not recognise or hold ourselves liable in any way in respect to terms or conditions of any other contract in connection with which the material involved may be concerned.
4. Safety and Professional Compliance
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Qualifications Required: Fireplace and stove installations carry strict legal safety regulations in the UK. Customers are strongly advised that all gas appliances must be installed by a qualified GAS SAFE engineer, and all solid fuel installations must be completed by a qualified HETAS engineer.
5. Terms of Payment
Deposit: Unless otherwise specified in writing, our standard terms require an advance deposit of 30% if requested by the seller at the time an order is placed by the buyer.
Balance Payment: The remaining balance must be paid in full immediately upon collection or delivery of the goods. Payments can be made via cash, building society cheque, or credit/debit card.
6. Quotations and Consumer Rights
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Pricing: Where prices are displayed on our website, they are subject to change. Formal fixed-price quotations will be issued following a home survey or consultation. We reserve the right to correct any pricing or typographical errors on the website. If an error affects your pending order, we will notify you immediately with the option to reconfirm at the correct price or cancel.
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Statutory Rights: Nothing within these terms and conditions affects your statutory rights as a UK consumer under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 or the Consumer Contracts Regulations. Goods supplied will be of satisfactory quality and fit for purpose. For bespoke, custom, or made-to-measure stone/fireplaces, cancellation rights are legally exempt once production has commenced.
7. Complaints Procedure
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How to Complain: We take pride in our workmanship and customer service. However, if you are unsatisfied with your goods or service, you must submit your complaint formally in writing.
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Contact Email: Please direct all complaints and supporting evidence to complaints@londonkentfireplaces.co.uk.
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We aim to acknowledge all complaints within 5 working days and provide a full resolution pathway as promptly as possible.
8. Limitation of Liability
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Nothing in these terms excludes or limits liability for death or personal injury caused by our direct negligence, fraud, or any liability that cannot be legally limited under English law.
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Subject to the above, London Kent Fireplaces shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages (including loss of profits, property damage, or secondary trade expenses) arising out of delayed deliveries, site conditions, or the use of our website.
9. Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising out of these terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.