Independent Inspections
At times, parties involved in a dispute need a little extra help in order to reach a resolution. If you are in dispute with a business that is not a member of the Ombudsman, we can provide inspections services.
There are a range of inspections that consumers can commission so as to provide evidence to back up their case.
Please note that if the business is a full member of The Ombudsman, then we are unable to carry out this service as our full alternative dispute resolution service is available to parties in this instance.
Virtual Inspection
What is a Virtual Inspection?
The quality of photographs and the availability of smart-phone video evidence or short video calls means that inspection reports can now be undertaken by consultants at arms-length.
Evidence submitted by the consumer or business will be collated and forwarded onto an independent inspector who specialises in the type of product the complaint is regarding. They will review the evidence and will document the findings in a report that can be used in the dispute.
These inspections, as they are virtual have no geographical limitations and can be carried out at a time to suit the consumer.
What will the report do
Confirm as far as is possible whether the fault(s) which the applicant has complained of is reasonable and valid.
Types of products the inspection can used for?
Examples of the types of complaints that Virtual Inspections can be used for:
Curtains
Upholstery and soft furnishings
Furniture including tables, cupboards, bookshelves and occasional furniture
Flooring and tiling
Operation of hinges and soft close machines in installations
Damage to products or property
Beds & mattresses
Please note this is not an exhaustive list. Where the independent inspection assessor deems that the virtual inspection will be of little to no benefit to the advancement of your case then we will contact you and arrange a refund.
All furniture, fitted kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, installations and general home improvements.
Cost of a virtual inspection
If your dispute is with one of our members then you may be able to have a virtual inspection as part of the process when a complaint is escalated to the Furniture and Home Improvement Ombudsman.
If the complaint is with a business who is not a member of our scheme, then the cost of this service is £135.
DownloadsGold Inspection
What is a Gold Inspection?
This court compliant report is designed to provide an independent assessment of a product and/or service to ensure that both parties know what the problems are and whether there is a valid complaint. This is a technical opinion in relation to the goods and/or service carried out and is not a decision on the entitlement that either party may have from a legal point of view. It will identify any defects or faults and give an opinion as to how/why those issues may have occurred. Each report contains digital images of the item in order to illustrate any faults found. Where possible the report will equip the parties with the possible solutions available in order to make cost effective repairs and the number of estimated hours involved in doing so. Inspections are prepared by consultants selected from a pool of trusted independent experts located throughout the UK. Each consultant prepares the report in preparation for use in Dispute Resolution or where required - formal litigation before the court.
What will the report do
It will identify any defects or faults and give an opinion as to how/why those issues may have occurred. It will also suggest possible remedial works that may be necessary along with an estimate of the number of hours it would take to carry out the required works.
Types of products the inspection can used for
All furniture, fitted kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, installations and general home improvements.
Cost of this report
Price based on individual quotation. Approximately £600.
Gold Inspection
What is a Gold Inspection?
Commissioned extensively by consumers, lawyers and the adjudicating staff, this report is designed to provide the parties with a document which identifies the issues in dispute and answers specific instructions and commenting further where relevant. Each report contains images of the item in order to illustrate any faults found. Where possible the report will equip the parties with the possible solutions available in order make cost effective repairs and the number of man hours involved in doing so. Inspections are prepared by consultants selected from a pool of trusted independent experts located throughout the UK. Each consultant prepares the report in preparation for use in Dispute Resolution or where required - formal litigation before the court.
We also offer a virtual inspection service where inspectors examine evidence submitted by either a business or consumer and writes a report based on these submissions. Virtual inspections can be used in cases where it is deemed an emergency or where there are geographical restrictions. More information on virtual inspections can be found on this page.
Do I need a Gold Inspection?
That depends on a number of factors
- Will you need the report as evidence in a court of law
- The type of product the dispute is regarding
- If you believe the product needs to be inspected in person
The Gold inspection process
The product or installation is examined by one of our qualified, independent professionals. A report is prepared, including technical data, images and expert opinions.
This report is then used by the parties, or a court, to make decisions on the validity of the issues in dispute, the cause and the appropriate remedy where possible.
Cost of this report
Fees start at £600 including VAT, and vary on a case-by-case basis
