Consumerline warning on 'Kitchens' firm

Consumerline, DETI’s consumer advice service, has warned Northern Ireland consumers in regard to a company called ‘Kitchens’, which last week was raided by officers from Oldham Trading Standards and Greater Manchester police.

According to Oldham Trading Standards, 'Kitchens' is one of the most complained about independent traders in the UK.

Consumerline has endorsed a warning from Oldham Trading Standards chief Tony Allen who advised consumers not to deal with Vance Miller and Kitchens of Maple Mill, Cardwell Street in Oldham. "There is a high probability of consumer detriment, misrepresentation, fraud and problems with transactions with this firm."

Consumerline have also offered advice for callers who have already paid and have an existing complaint: “If it is possible to source replacement materials from other traders this may be the most viable option. If this is not possible then your only option will be to continue with attempting to get replacements from Kitchens. However, you are advised that the likelihood of the complaint being resolved within a reasonable time will be minimal.

"We would advise that the likelihood of a successful recovery of damages against Kitchens through the courts is extremely low.”

Advising those who had paid a deposit that this was unlikely to be refunded, Oldham Trading Standards said rejection must be initiated at the delivery stage: “In the event of a delivery you must conduct a thorough inspection of the kitchen supplied before acceptance. This inspection must take place before the delivery driver departs your property.

"We strongly recommend that you do not pay any further money to Kitchens, regardless of your contractual position. In the very unlikely event that Kitchens do attempt to enforce their ‘contract’ through the courts, Oldham Trading Standards will support consumers in defending this action.

Contact Consumerline on 0845 600 6262 or visit the Consumerline website on www.consumerline.org

(EF)