Installing kitchens requires a wide range of skills and know-how to achieve quality results. However, the job of installer is not directly recognized, and qualifications and skills can vary from one installer to another.
The importance of delivering a compliant worksite
Whatever the nature of the work, it’s essential to deliver the worksite in proper condition. By law, any structure, shell or ancillary equipment (kitchens, bathrooms, interior fittings) that renders a dwelling uninhabitable or unsuitable for use must be covered by a ten-year warranty.
If damage such as water damage, electrical malfunction or falling elements occurs after installation, you may be held liable for ten years following acceptance of the work. In fact, the certificate of completion marks the start of the biennial and decennial warranties.
Mandatory or recommended?
Initially, this question arose for kitchen designers. Today, the issue has been settled, and it appears that the construction of a kitchen is a construction work within the meaning of the law, and is therefore covered by compulsory ten-year insurance (article L 241-1 of the Insurance Code and articles 1792 et seq. of the Civil Code).
Legally speaking, the decennial liability regime after acceptance of work only applies to relations between the kitchen specialist and his customer. However, it is clearly in the interests of the subcontractor (the installer) to be well covered by Decennial Civil Liability insurance, as the kitchen specialist’s insurer will automatically turn against the installer in the event of a claim by a customer.
So, while the term “compulsory” is open to debate, an installer is required to take out an insurance policy to avoid having to cover any claims made by the kitchen specialist’s insurer out of his or her own pocket.
Decennial and biennial warranties
The ten-year warranty, governed by article 1792-4-1 of the French Civil Code, automatically holds the builder liable in the event of damage affecting the solidity of the construction or rendering it unfit for its intended use. The builder is presumed liable. This guarantee applies for a period of ten years from acceptance of the work.
A biennial warranty covers damage to other parts of the structure for two years from the date of acceptance. Decennial insurance covers repair work on the structure in the event of damage after its construction, renovation or modification. Coverage may vary from one insurance company to another.
Capveil: Your partner for the ten-year warranty
At Capveil, they understand the trade of installers and kitchen specialists, which makes all the difference. They’ve developed offers specifically adapted to these professions, and negotiated with the major insurance companies to offer you the coverage you need at the best price.
By choosing to work with Capveil, you’ll benefit from a comprehensive package that includes ten-year guarantee and legal protection, at the best possible price. This package covers not only “traditional” kitchen installation, but also any electrical, plumbing and joinery work you may be doing. Capveil’s underwriting team will provide you with all the information you need, and take care of all the paperwork. In the event of a claim, their dedicated team will be there to support you. After reading this information, are you still wondering whether a ten-year guarantee is necessary for your installation or kitchen business?