Choosing an installer the manufacturer will accept for warranty

You've bought a new washing machine, dishwasher or fridge—maybe something more expensive—and the last thing you want is to discover months later that the manufacturer won't honour the warranty because your installer wasn't "authorised" or "approved". The question underneath this one is: how do I know the person I hire will actually keep my warranty alive?

Manufacturers don't require you to use a specific installer for every product. What they *do* require is that whoever you hire meets certain standards—training, certifications, parts sourcing, or compliance with gas or electrical codes. If those standards aren't met, your claim gets rejected. The stakes are real, but the selection process is simpler than it feels once you know what to look for.

Check what the manufacturer actually stipulates

Your warranty document or the manufacturer's website will state the installation requirements. Some brands require an "authorised dealer" or "approved installer"; others just demand that the job be done by a qualified electrician or gas fitter. Read that section carefully. If it says "installation by an approved technician" but doesn't spell out *how* someone becomes approved, contact the manufacturer's customer service and ask for a list of approved installers in your area—or ask what qualification or accreditation satisfies their requirement. Many manufacturers have regional networks you don't know exist. If the installer can provide a reference from that network or a warranty certificate from the brand, that's your clearest sign they're acceptable.

Verify relevant trade qualifications and registrations

For electrical appliances, your installer should hold a current electrical qualification or be working under the supervision of someone who does. For gas appliances, ask for proof they're registered with the relevant compliance body—this is non-negotiable because it's a safety and legal issue, not just a warranty one. For plumbed appliances, some manufacturers care less about a specific ticket and more about a track record of leak-free installations; ask to speak to recent customers. The right installer will have these credentials ready to show you. If they're vague or dismissive about qualifications, move on; that's a red flag whether or not warranty is at stake.

Ask about their parts sourcing and training

Some manufacturers require installers to use genuine parts and replacement components. Others are less strict but still void the warranty if non-approved parts are used during setup. Ask your candidate: where do they source spare parts if something goes wrong during installation? Do they have an account with the manufacturer or authorised distributor? Have they been factory-trained on this model or brand? If an installer has installed dozens of that model and has a supplier relationship with the brand, the manufacturer is far more likely to back the installation if a claim arises. Conversely, if they've only installed it once or get parts from a third-party marketplace, that's a weaker position.

Understand what voids a warranty during installation

Damage caused by the installer, improper connection, or failure to follow the manual voids the warranty—and that's the manufacturer's right. Your job is to hire someone experienced enough that mistakes are unlikely. Ask how long they've been installing this *type* of appliance (not just their years in the trade generally). Ask if they've had warranty claims or disputes with manufacturers. A trustworthy installer will admit if something goes wrong and may even know how to report it correctly so the claim doesn't get rejected on a technicality. Installers who cut corners or rush through setups—whatever they charge—are more likely to create the conditions for a warranty denial.

When you're comparing quotes, don't just look at price. Ring the candidates and ask them directly: "Will my warranty still be valid after you install this?" Their answer and their confidence matter. If they know the manufacturer's requirements and can explain exactly why they meet them, you've found someone reliable. If they seem uncertain or say "it should be fine," that's a warning. On Strove you can check reviews from their past installation jobs and message them with your specific warranty concerns before booking—that gives you the clarity you need to decide with confidence.