Warranties are a funny thing; most of us scoff at the cost of a warranty at the time of purchase, thinking “what could possibly happen”, or “warranties never seem to cover anything if something does happen” so we smile while declining to purchase the extended warranty. However, it’s a decision we always regret when something does happen, and we hear those fateful words “Did you purchase the extended warranty?”. According to Forbes, furniture is one of the largest purchases you will make, next to a home, car, retirement and education. And while we purchase insurances and warranties for each of these, why do we continue to ignore the warranty for our furniture? Now it is true, not all warranties are created equal, and there is some diligence required on behalf of the consumer when it comes to taking full advantage of the warranty. So, let’s take a few minutes to discuss with one of our top DM (District Manager’s) what options are available when it comes to protecting one of your largest purchases. Question 1. What’s the Difference Between the Manufacturer’s Warranty versus Extended Warranty? DM: When purchasing furniture, there are a few options available for warranty. Unless stated, all upholstery purchases come with a standard one-year manufacturer’s warranty. This covers anything manufacture related, like if the frame breaks or if the fabric separates at the seams. Surplus Furniture is excited to offer the Total Care Protection Plan, which covers any accidental cut, rips, stains or burns. We also have additional plans that cover springs, frames and reclining mechanisms for the next 5 years. All the customer has to do is contact the warranty company provided in the protection plan kit. Question 2. Can we purchase the warranty after the purchase? DM: No. You can only purchase the warranty at the time of purchase. One big factor to consider is optics; if you initially refuse the warranty, but then purchase it at a later date and immediately file a claim afterwards, it appears to the manufacturer that you only purchased the warranty in order to cover a claim. Question 3. Can you register your Protection Plan online? DM: Yes. This is a common mistake from customers. When you purchase the Total Care Protection Plan, one of the first things the customer should do is register the plan online. That way all their information is registered and stored should they need to make any warranty claims at a later date. [caption id="attachment_843" align="aligncenter" width="799"] Ultra Shield's Total Care Kit (Wood, Fabric & Leather)[/caption] Question 4. So a customer purchases the Total Care Protection Plan, registers it online and now something has happened and they need to make a claim. What steps do they take? DM: All the customer needs to do is contact the 1-800 number provided on the protection plan kit immediately. Follow the directions over the phone or on the kit. Once the claim has been approved, the store can look after replacement or repairs of the components. Question 5. What happens if I am a pet owner? DM: Surplus Furniture is pleased to offer the 5 Year Total Care VIP Pet Protection Plan, which covers all unintentional and accidental damage from handling as well as damages caused by pets. Question 6. What’s included in the Protection Kit? DM: The Total Care Kit comes with the following: 1) A leather protector & conditioner to prevent leather from drying and cracking 2) A cream polish to give your wood surfaces a clean shine 3) A scratch guard to protect the wood furniture against scratches, and 4) Amodex ink & stain remover. In addition, the kit comes with a detailed protection plan/service agreement number with details on the coverage and instructions on registering your warranty. You must keep that document as well as your original invoice should you have to file a claim. Buying furniture shouldn’t be a stressful process. Customers should know that once they make their purchase, Surplus Furniture and Mattress Warehouse will always be at their service to help with any concerns or questions. It’s this confidence and trust that we want to instill on our customers.