​How to Write a Warranty​ (with free template)

A warranty is a legally binding document proving your ability and willingness to provide quality, lasting workmanship to customers. Writing a warranty isn’t just about protecting your trade business from legal risks — it also shows customers you’re reliable and take your work seriously. 

Download the free template now and protect your business!

Low on time? Skip ahead! 

1. What is a warranty?
2. What should be included in a warranty for trade businesses?
3. What isn’t covered by a warranty?
4. How long should a warranty last for trade businesses?
5. How do customers claim a service under warranty?
6. How do laws affect warranties for trade businesses?
7. Where can I find a warranty template for trade businesses?

1. What is a warranty?

A warranty is a document that outlines the process to address any issues from a service within a specified timeframe. A warranty reassures customers that the work performed meets professional standards and offers a safeguard against future issues.

Mistakes can happen, no matter how experienced or careful you are. Without a warranty in place, figuring out how to handle them can become complicated. This can lead to unhappy customers, negative reviews, and even legal trouble. A formal warranty helps trade businesses resolve issues, build trust with clients, and protect themselves from unnecessary risks.

2. What should be included in a warranty for trade businesses?

A warranty for trade businesses should clearly outline the services covered, including:

• Service provider and customer information: Basic details such as names, addresses, and contact information.
• Scope of warranty coverage: This should define the services and materials covered by the warranty.
• Warranty duration: State the start and end dates.
• Exclusions and limitations: Lists conditions not covered, such as wear and tear, accidental damage, misuse, and natural disasters.
• Limitation of liability: This will outline specific losses the provider is not responsible for, including loss of business, personal injury, and property damage not related to the service.
• Warranty claim process: Describe the steps for submitting claims, including notifications, inspections, and resolutions.
• Exclusive rights of service provider: This section grants the provider authority to determine the validity of the claim and final decision-making power.
• Insurance: Advise customers to maintain liability insurance for uncovered risks.
• Signatures: Include space for contractor and client signatures.

Make sure your warranty covers all the details with our free template!

3. What isn’t covered by a warranty?

Outlining exclusions in your warranty policy is crucial to protect your business from unnecessary claims and to set realistic expectations with customers. Stating what isn’t covered ensures the warranty applies only to issues within your control.

• Customer misuse or negligence: Any damage resulting from improper use, failure to follow instructions, or lack of maintenance should not be covered.
• Third-party interference: If another contractor or unlicensed individual alters or repairs the work, the warranty should be voided.
• Acts of nature or external damage: Damage caused by floods, storms, fires, or other natural disasters should be explicitly excluded.
• General wear and tear: Routine wear of parts, fixtures, and materials over time should not be confused with defects covered by the warranty.
• Unauthorised modifications: Any unauthorised modifications to the original work will invalidate the warranty.
• Accidental damage: State that any accidental or intentional damage caused by the customer or other individuals is not included.

4. How long should a warranty last for trade businesses?

For trade businesses, it's important to clearly define warranty periods for both labour and parts to protect your business from unnecessary liabilities.

Labour cover

Labour warranties typically cover a set period. This ensures that any issues arising from faulty installation or repairs are addressed within a reasonable timeframe.

Parts and materials

Parts are often covered by manufacturer warranties, which may last longer than the labour warranty. It’s important to clearly differentiate between the two.

• Example: "All materials supplied by us are covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, which may vary from 1 to 5 years."

Extended coverage options

Some trade businesses offer extended warranties for an additional fee, providing a potential upsell opportunity.

• Example: "Customers can extend their service warranty for an additional 12 months at the time of installation."

Specific project durations

Some jobs—like roofing or big installations—might need longer warranty coverage. Being upfront about why certain projects have different warranty lengths helps build trust and keeps everyone on the same page.

5. How do customers claim a service under warranty?

Keeping the warranty claim process simple makes life easier for your customers and helps maintain their trust. Clear, step-by-step instructions ensure they know exactly how to make a claim. 

How to initiate a claim

Outline the different ways a customer can contact your business to begin the claim process.

• Example: "Customers can initiate a warranty claim by calling our support team at [phone number], emailing [support@email.com], or filling out the warranty request form on our website."x

Proof of service

Explain the need for providing proof of service, such as the invoice, job number, or photos of the completed work.

• Example: "To process your claim, please provide the invoice number and photographs of the area or product related to the warranty issue."

Inspection requirements

Specify if an inspection is necessary before warranty work begins.

• Example: "A site inspection will be arranged within 5 working days of receiving your claim to assess the fault and determine if it is covered under warranty."

Customer responsibilities

Clarify any responsibilities the customer must fulfil, such as ensuring the area is accessible for inspection or repair.

• Example: "Please ensure that the affected area is clear and accessible at the time of inspection to allow for a thorough assessment."

6. How do laws affect warranties for trade businesses?

Trade businesses must ensure their warranty policies comply with local, regional, and national consumer protection laws. These laws often set minimum standards for warranties, including what can and cannot be excluded from coverage. As responsible business owners, its your responsibility to check what needs to be included by law within your warranty. 

Consumer rights and guarantees

Most countries, including the UK, Australia, and the US, have consumer protection laws that guarantee certain rights, regardless of the business’s policies.

• Example: "Under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), goods and services must be fit for purpose, and customers are entitled to repairs or replacements if the service fails to meet acceptable quality standards."

Limits on exclusions

Some jurisdictions restrict the exclusion of certain types of coverage, such as consequential damages or implied warranties.

• Example: "In the UK, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 ensures that services must be performed with reasonable care and skill, and exclusions of liability for negligence may be deemed invalid."

Differences by region or state

If your trade business operates in multiple areas, acknowledge that legal requirements may vary.

• Example: "Warranty terms are subject to local laws and may vary by region. Customers are advised to check their rights under their respective state or national regulations."

Transparency and compliance

Clearly state how your warranty aligns with relevant laws and how customers can seek further advice if needed.

• Example: "Our warranty complies with all relevant consumer protection laws, providing rights that cannot be excluded or limited."

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