Z&S BLINDS LTD

MADE-TO-MEASURE BLINDS, SHUTTERS & WINDOW COVERINGS

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE, SUPPLY & INSTALLATION

 

Terms & Conditions – Version: 2026

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

These Terms and Conditions apply to the supply of made-to-measure blinds, shutters, window coverings, components and associated measuring, surveying, delivery, fitting and installation services supplied by Z & S Blinds Ltd.

Please read these Terms carefully before accepting a quotation, paying a deposit or placing an order.

By accepting our quotation, instructing us to proceed and/or paying the required deposit, you confirm that you have been given a reasonable opportunity to read these Terms and agree to them.

These Terms are intended to clearly explain the responsibilities of both Z&S Blinds Ltd and the Customer and to reduce misunderstandings concerning bespoke products and installation work.

Nothing in these Terms is intended to remove, restrict or replace any statutory rights that cannot lawfully be excluded.

 

1. COMPANY DETAILS

Company: Z & S Blinds Ltd

Company Number: 13397164

Email: info@zsblinds.co.uk

Telephone: 07918 845 608

Website: www.zsblinds.com

 

2. DEFINITIONS

For these Terms:

“Z&S Blinds”, “Company”, “we”, “us” or “our” means Z & S Blinds Ltd.

“Customer”, “you” or “your” means the person or organisation purchasing Goods and/or Services from us.

“Goods” includes blinds, shutters, curtains where supplied, fabrics, louvres, slats, frames, headrails, cassettes, tubes, motors, remotes, controls, brackets, safety devices, accessories, fittings and other products supplied by us.

“Services” means measuring, surveying, advice, manufacture where applicable, supply, delivery, fitting, installation, adjustment, repair or other services provided by us.

“Order” means the Goods and/or Services shown on the quotation, invoice, order confirmation or other written order documentation.

“Contract” means the agreement between the Customer and Z&S Blinds Ltd incorporating the accepted quotation/order and these Terms.

“Premises” means the property or location where Goods are measured, delivered or installed.

“Made-to-Measure Goods” means products manufactured, altered, cut, ordered or otherwise produced specifically to the Customer’s measurements or specifications.

 

3. APPLICATION OF THESE TERMS

These Terms are primarily intended for Customers purchasing as consumers.

Commercial, landlord, contractor, developer, office, trade or other business orders may be subject to additional or different written terms.

If we specifically agree something with you in writing that conflicts with these general Terms, the specific written agreement relating to your Order will normally take priority.

 

4. FORMATION OF THE CONTRACT

A quotation does not by itself require either party to proceed.

Unless agreed otherwise in writing, the Contract is formed when:

1. the Customer accepts the quotation/order;

2. any required deposit or advance payment is received; and

3. we accept the Order for processing.

Before accepting an Order, the Customer must check the details supplied.

 

This includes, where applicable:

• product type;

• quantities;

• rooms;

• window identification;

• measurements;

• fabric;

• colour;

• pattern;

• texture;

• material;

• finish;

• blind style;

• shutter style;

• cassette type;

• frame type;

• louvre/slat size;

• operating mechanism;

• chain side;

• wand side;

• motor position;

• manual or motorised operation;

• control method;

• remote-control requirements;

• fitting location;

• recess or face/exact fitting;

• special requirements; and

• other specifications.

The Customer should raise any discrepancy before manufacture or ordering begins.

Customer approval does not excuse an error made by Z&S Blinds where we have failed to provide what was actually agreed.

 

5. QUOTATIONS

Unless stated otherwise, quotations are valid for 7 days.

After the validity period we may issue a revised quotation.

Prices may change because of matters including:

• supplier price changes;

• material costs;

• product availability;

• specification changes;

• changes requested by the Customer;

• incorrect information originally supplied;

• additional works discovered after survey; or

• circumstances which could not reasonably have been identified at quotation stage.

We will not impose additional charges without explaining the reason where additional Customer approval is reasonably required.

 

6. ESTIMATES

Any preliminary price given before a full survey may be an estimate rather than a final quotation.

An estimate based on photographs, approximate measurements or information provided by the Customer may change following an on-site survey.

The final Order should be based upon the written quotation/order confirmation accepted by the Customer.

 

7. DEPOSITS AND ADVANCE PAYMENTS

Unless stated otherwise, we normally require a 50% advance payment/deposit before placing bespoke Goods into manufacture or ordering materials.

Because Made-to-Measure Goods are produced specifically for an individual Customer, significant costs may be incurred very shortly after the Order is placed.

If a Customer cancels after manufacturing, cutting or supplier ordering has begun, we may retain an appropriate amount from sums already paid, or seek reasonable additional payment, to reflect losses actually incurred as a result of the cancellation.

We will not retain money merely as a penalty.

Any amount retained will be considered in light of matters including:

• materials ordered;

• bespoke products already manufactured;

• supplier cancellation costs;

• work already undertaken;

• delivery or administration costs reasonably incurred;

• whether Goods can reasonably be reused or resold; and

• other direct losses arising from the cancellation.

Nothing in this clause affects statutory cancellation or refund rights where they apply.

 

8. FINAL BALANCE

Unless otherwise stated on your quotation or invoice, the remaining balance becomes due on completion of the agreed installation.

Where installation takes place in stages, the quotation may specify staged payments.

The Customer must not unreasonably withhold the entire outstanding balance because of a minor snagging matter capable of being rectified.

Where a genuine defect or installation problem exists, the Customer should allow us a reasonable opportunity to inspect and, where appropriate, correct it.

This does not restrict any statutory remedy available to the Customer.

 

9. MADE-TO-MEASURE GOODS

The majority of Goods supplied by us are bespoke.

They may be:

• manufactured specifically to measured dimensions;

• cut from fabric specifically for your Order;

• specially coloured;

• specially ordered;

• altered;

• manufactured to a particular operating configuration; or

• otherwise personalised.

Made-to-measure or clearly personalised Goods are generally excluded from the standard change-of-mind cancellation right applicable to certain distance and off-premises contracts.

This does not remove your rights where Goods are faulty, not as described, incorrectly manufactured because of our error or otherwise fail to meet applicable consumer-law requirements.

 

10. CANCELLATION BY THE CUSTOMER

If you wish to cancel, you should contact us as soon as possible.

Where manufacture or ordering has not yet started, we will consider what work and costs have already been incurred.

Where manufacture, fabric cutting, supplier ordering or other irreversible bespoke work has begun, cancellation may result in reasonable charges or retention of part or all of an advance payment depending upon the actual loss caused.

We will take reasonable steps to reduce avoidable losses where practicable.

Nothing in this section prevents a Customer relying upon any statutory cancellation right that applies.

​

11. DISTANCE AND OFF-PREMISES CONTRACTS

Additional consumer rules may apply where a Contract is concluded:

• online;

• by telephone;

• at the Customer’s home;

• away from our business premises; or

• through another qualifying distance/off-premises method.

Made-to-Measure Goods are generally excluded from the standard cancellation right because they are manufactured to the Customer’s specification.

A separate service element may be treated differently depending upon the circumstances.

Where required by law, appropriate cancellation information will be provided.

Nothing in these Terms removes a statutory cancellation right where one legally applies.

 

12. CUSTOMER CHANGES AFTER ORDER

Once an Order has entered manufacture or been submitted to a supplier, changes may not be possible.

This can include changing:

• measurements;

• fabric;

• colour;

• design;

• controls;

• motor type;

• fitting method;

• quantity; or

• other specification.

If a change is possible, additional charges and a revised lead time may apply.

Any variation should be confirmed in writing.

 

13. SURVEY AND MEASURING SERVICE

Where we carry out a survey, measurements will be taken according to the visible and reasonably accessible conditions at the Premises at that time.

Our survey is a blind/shutter measuring survey.

Unless expressly agreed, it is not a structural, electrical, plumbing, asbestos, glazing, building or engineering survey.

We are not expected to identify hidden structural defects or concealed services that could not reasonably have been discovered during a normal blind survey.

 

14. ALTERATIONS AFTER SURVEY

The Customer must tell us if any work will take place after our survey but before installation.

Examples include:

• replacement windows;

• replacement doors;

• new handles;

• plastering;

• rendering;

• decorating;

• tiling;

• flooring;

• window-board replacement;

• electrical work;

• building works;

• insulation;

• boxing;

• ceiling alterations; or

• structural alterations.

Changes to the Premises may make our original measurements unsuitable.

Where re-measuring, alteration, modification or remanufacture becomes necessary because the Customer or another contractor changed the Premises after our survey, reasonable additional costs may apply.

 

15. CUSTOMER-SUPPLIED MEASUREMENTS

Where a Customer supplies their own measurements and instructs us to manufacture without a Z&S Blinds survey, responsibility for the accuracy of those measurements rests with the Customer.

We will manufacture according to the dimensions and specifications supplied, subject to ordinary manufacturing tolerances.

Where Goods do not fit because customer-supplied measurements were incorrect, the cost of alterations, remakes, replacement materials and additional visits may be charged to the Customer.

This does not apply where the error was caused by us.

 

16. MANUFACTURING TOLERANCES

Made-to-measure blinds and shutters are manufactured products and reasonable manufacturing tolerances may exist.

A small dimensional difference does not automatically mean the product is defective.

Reasonable tolerances may occur in:

• overall width;

• overall drop;

• slat/louvre spacing;

• fabric positioning;

• frame joints;

• headrail lengths;

• component alignment;

• panel alignment;

• gaps necessary for operation; and

• similar manufacturing characteristics.

A tolerance will not excuse a product that materially fails to fit, function or match the agreed specification.

 

17. UNEVEN OR OUT-OF-SQUARE WINDOWS

Windows, recesses, walls and ceilings are frequently not perfectly:

• straight;

• level;

• square;

• parallel;

• vertical; or

• symmetrical.

Measurements may differ between the top, centre and bottom of an opening.

Where necessary, blinds may therefore be manufactured with an appropriate allowance or deduction to permit correct operation.

A visible difference between a straight blind and an uneven wall, sill, frame or ceiling is not necessarily an installation fault.

 

18. RECESS FITTING CLEARANCES

A recess-fitted blind usually requires clearance so that it does not scrape, jam or bind against the recess.

This means small gaps can remain at the sides.

The amount of clearance depends upon:

• product type;

• window shape;

• brackets;

• operating mechanism;

• handles;

• obstructions;

• fabric behaviour; and

• manufacturing requirements.

These operational gaps are normal unless a different arrangement has expressly been agreed.

 

19. LIGHT GAPS

Most conventional blinds are not completely light-sealed systems.

Light may enter:

• down either side;

• above the blind;

• below the blind;

• around brackets;

• beside a cassette;

• where two blinds meet;

• around bay-window corners;

• around door handles;

• around irregular recesses; or

• through other parts of the window opening.

Reasonable light gaps required by the design or fitting of the product do not by themselves constitute a defect.

 

20. BLACKOUT FABRICS

A fabric described as blackout means that the fabric itself is designed to significantly prevent light passing directly through it.

It does not necessarily mean the entire room will become completely dark.

A normal roller, vertical, Roman, pleated, day & night or similar blind using blackout material may still allow light around its edges.

A specialist framed blackout system, side channels or other specialist product may be required where near-total room darkening is essential.

The Customer should tell us before ordering if this is an essential requirement.

​

21. BAY WINDOWS

Bay windows frequently require multiple blinds installed close together.

Because brackets, controls, tubes, headrails and fabrics occupy physical space, gaps at bay-window corners may be unavoidable.

Where blinds meet at angles, they may not meet edge-to-edge.

The exact appearance depends upon:

• bay angles;

• window handles;

• recess depth;

• sill depth;

• blind type;

• control location; and

• installation position.

Reasonable bay-window corner gaps are a normal consequence of fitting separate blinds and are not necessarily a defect.

 

22. HANDLES AND WINDOW FURNITURE

The operation of blinds may be affected by:

• window handles;

• door handles;

• vents;

• trickle vents;

• locks;

• hinges;

• restrictors;

• sensors;

• alarm equipment; or

• other window furniture.

Where space is limited, a blind or fabric may occasionally brush or pass close to a handle or obstruction.

We will use reasonable care when positioning the product but cannot guarantee unlimited clearance where the window layout does not physically permit it.

 

23. FABRIC CHARACTERISTICS

Fabric is flexible and may respond to:

• temperature;

• humidity;

• sunlight;

• manufacturing processes;

• storage;

• gravity;

• roll tension;

• blind dimensions; and

• repeated use.

Depending on the material and size of the blind, reasonable characteristics may include:

• slight curling;

• minor edge curl;

• rippling;

• minor creasing;

• minor bowing;

• slight waviness;

• movement;

• minor fraying;

• slight puckering;

• minor fabric memory;

• weave variations; or

• other characteristics inherent in textile products.

These characteristics are considered in context and do not automatically constitute a manufacturing defect.

 

24. FABRIC JOINS

Very large blinds may sometimes require a fabric join where the required dimensions exceed available fabric widths or manufacturing limitations.

We will normally advise the Customer where a join is expected before proceeding.

A properly manufactured disclosed join is not a defect.

 

25. COLOUR, SHADE AND BATCH VARIATIONS

Samples are intended to give a reasonable representation of a product.

Exact appearance may vary because of:

• lighting;

• screen/display settings;

• dye lot;

• batch;

• material texture;

• grain;

• weave;

• manufacturer changes;

• natural material variation; or

• age of an existing product.

Where several products must match as closely as reasonably possible, they should preferably be ordered at the same time.

An exact match between an older blind and a later replacement cannot be guaranteed.

 

26. PRODUCT SAMPLES

Samples are relatively small portions of material.

The appearance of a completed blind across a larger surface may differ from the impression produced by a small sample.

This can particularly apply to:

• patterned fabrics;

• textured fabrics;

• wood products;

• marble-effect finishes;

• reflective materials;

• voile fabrics; and

• fabrics whose appearance changes with lighting.

 

27. PATTERN ALIGNMENT

Patterned fabrics may have a pattern repeat.

Unless expressly agreed otherwise, we do not guarantee that:

• a particular part of a pattern will sit at an exact point on the blind;

• separate blinds will start on the identical part of a pattern; or

• patterns across adjoining windows will align perfectly.

Where exact pattern matching is requested, additional fabric and manufacturing cost may be required.

 

28. ROLLER BLINDS

Customers acknowledge that roller blinds may naturally have side gaps because the fabric is narrower than the overall bracket-to-bracket width.

With certain fabrics or larger blinds, reasonable fabric movement, edge curl or slight rippling can occur.

The fabric may also move slightly while rolling.

A roller blind should be operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and should not be pulled sideways or subjected to excessive force.

 

29. VERTICAL BLINDS

Vertical blind louvres are flexible hanging components.

Normal characteristics may include:

• slight movement;

• minor twisting;

• movement caused by draughts;

• small differences in how individual louvres hang;

• movement after opening doors/windows;

• slight spacing variations; and

• temporary movement after the blind is operated.

Louvres should not be forced by hand while the mechanism is under load.

Furniture and other objects should not obstruct them.

 

30. DAY & NIGHT / ZEBRA / VISION BLINDS

Day & night blinds use alternating transparent and opaque fabric sections.

The stripe position may vary slightly between different blinds because each product has individual dimensions and fabric starting positions.

Unless expressly agreed as a special requirement, we cannot guarantee exact horizontal stripe alignment between separate blinds installed beside one another.

Light may also remain visible through side gaps and around the cassette.

31. VENETIAN BLINDS

Venetian blinds contain multiple moving slats.

Minor differences in slat position or closing angle may occur.

Venetian blinds are designed primarily to control light and privacy and may not completely prevent light entering between slats.

Slats can be damaged by:

• bending;

• crushing;

• excessive force;

• pets;

• children;

• objects resting against the blind; or

• incorrect operation.

 

32. WOOD AND FAUX-WOOD VENETIANS

Natural wood may display differences in:

• grain;

• shade;

• texture;

• knots;

• markings; and

• natural pattern.

These are characteristics of natural materials.

Wood products may respond to changes in temperature and humidity.

Unless expressly sold as suitable for that environment, natural wood should not be exposed to excessive moisture.

Faux-wood products may also expand or contract slightly due to temperature.

 

33. PERFECT FIT AND NO-DRILL PRODUCTS

Perfect Fit and similar systems depend upon the suitability of the Customer’s window or door.

Fit can be affected by:

• glazing bead shape;

• bead depth;

• rubber seals;

• handle clearance;

• window design;

• existing damage;

• frame distortion; or

• unusually shaped glazing.

Some clip-in systems engage around glazing beads or seals.

Reasonable temporary marking or compression associated with correctly installing such systems may occur depending upon the window design.

 

34. PLEATED AND HONEYCOMB BLINDS

Pleated and honeycomb fabrics are designed to fold.

The folds may settle or alter slightly during normal use.

Large drops and long periods in one position can affect the way the material stacks.

Customers should operate the blind regularly and follow relevant care instructions.

 

35. SHUTTERS

Shutters are rigid fitted products and require operating clearances.

Reasonable gaps may therefore exist:

• between panels;

• between panels and frames;

• around hinges;

• around frames;

• where shutters meet uneven openings; and

• where required for opening and closing.

Natural wood shutters may display grain and colour variation.

Minor movement can occur as timber responds to humidity and temperature.

Where shutters are fitted to uneven or out-of-square openings, frames may be adjusted or packed so the shutters themselves can operate correctly.

A visible difference between a straight shutter frame and an uneven wall is not necessarily defective workmanship.

 

36. CURVED, TRIANGULAR AND SPECIAL-SHAPE PRODUCTS

Special-shape products may require:

• multiple headrails;

• split sections;

• specialist brackets;

• extension clips;

• additional gaps;

• non-standard operating arrangements; or

• different visual proportions.

These products are often technically constrained by the shape of the opening.

Any significant limitations known to us will be explained where reasonably practicable before manufacture.

 

37. ROOF, SKYLIGHT AND HIGH-LEVEL BLINDS

Skylight and roof blinds may require specialist operating systems.

Manual systems can require poles or wands.

Motorised systems can depend on battery charge, solar conditions, mains supply or remote controls.

High-level products may require additional access equipment for future maintenance.

Unless included in the quotation, future specialist access equipment is not included within routine warranty visits.

 

38. MOTORISED AND ELECTRIC BLINDS

Motorised products contain electrical/electronic components.

Operation can depend upon:

• battery charge;

• power supply;

• motor configuration;

• remote controls;

• radio signal;

• Wi-Fi;

• hubs;

• third-party smart-home equipment;

• mobile applications;

• software;

• internet connectivity; or

• solar charging.

The Customer must follow charging and operating instructions.

Rechargeable batteries are consumable components and their performance may gradually reduce over time.

Remote-control batteries are also consumable items unless a fault exists at initial supply.

 

39. SMART-HOME AND THIRD-PARTY SYSTEMS

Where a motorised blind is capable of communicating with third-party equipment, compatibility may depend upon equipment and services outside our control.

This may include:

• Alexa;

• Google Home;

• Apple systems;

• third-party hubs;

• Wi-Fi routers;

• mobile operating systems;

• supplier servers;

• applications; and

• future software updates.

Unless expressly included in our quotation, we do not guarantee indefinite compatibility with third-party platforms that may later be altered, discontinued or updated by their providers.

This does not affect responsibility for the Goods we have supplied.

 

40. FIXED ELECTRICAL WORK

Unless specifically included in writing, Z&S Blinds Ltd’s installation price does not include fixed mains electrical wiring or alteration of the building’s electrical installation.

Where fixed electrical work is required, it should be undertaken by an appropriately competent person.

Any electrical supply required for motorised blinds should be available at the agreed location before installation unless we have specifically agreed otherwise.

 

41. SOLAR-POWERED PRODUCTS

Performance of solar-powered motors or charging systems can depend upon light exposure.

Reduced sunlight, shading, orientation, dirt on solar panels or other environmental conditions can affect charging performance.

This does not necessarily indicate a motor fault.

 

42. CONDENSATION, HUMIDITY AND MOISTURE

Blinds and shutters do not cause the underlying building to ventilate itself.

Condensation or moisture can occur because of:

• inadequate ventilation;

• humidity;

• temperature differences;

• drying laundry;

• bathrooms;

• kitchens;

• defective glazing;

• building insulation; or

• other property conditions.

The Customer is responsible for maintaining appropriate ventilation and controlling excessive moisture.

We are not responsible for mould, staining, corrosion or material deterioration caused by conditions within the property unless directly resulting from a defect for which we are legally responsible.

 

43. DIRECT SUNLIGHT AND HEAT

Products exposed to strong sunlight may experience gradual:

• fading;

• discolouration;

• ageing; or

• material change.

Some dark-coloured products may absorb greater heat.

The Customer should inform us of unusually high-heat conditions where relevant.

Normal fading or ageing caused by long-term environmental exposure is not normally a manufacturing fault.

 

44. INSTALLATION ACCESS

The Customer must provide safe and reasonable access to the installation areas.

Before our fitter arrives, the Customer should move or protect where necessary:

• furniture;

• ornaments;

• fragile items;

• electronics;

• plants;

• valuables;

• curtains;

• personal possessions; and

• other obstructions.

There should be enough space for installers to use ladders, tools and equipment safely.

 

45. CHILDREN AND PETS DURING INSTALLATION

For safety reasons, children and pets should be kept away from active installation areas.

The Customer is responsible for supervising children and animals at the Premises while work is being carried out.

 

46. UNSAFE WORKING CONDITIONS

We may refuse, suspend or postpone work where conditions are unsafe.

Examples include:

• unsafe access;

• aggressive behaviour;

• uncontrolled animals;

• dangerous electrical conditions;

• suspected asbestos;

• unstable structures;

• unsafe ladders/access routes;

• hazardous materials;

• serious obstruction; or

• other conditions presenting an unreasonable risk.

Where a further visit becomes necessary because the Premises were not reasonably ready or safe for installation, a reasonable additional charge may apply.

 

47. ASBESTOS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

Our normal blind survey does not include asbestos testing.

The Customer must inform us if they know or suspect that asbestos or another hazardous material may be present in an area where drilling or installation is proposed.

If our installer reasonably suspects hazardous material, work may be stopped until the area has been confirmed safe.

We will not knowingly drill into suspected asbestos-containing material.

 

48. FITTING POSITION

The fitting position should be agreed before or during installation.

Depending upon the property and product, this may include fitting to:

• plaster;

• masonry;

• concrete;

• timber;

• window frames;

• uPVC;

• metal;

• ceilings;

• recesses;

• architraves;

• tiles; or

• other suitable surfaces.

Where the proposed fitting location materially changes on installation day, additional work or modification may be necessary.

 

49. CUSTOMER AGREEMENT TO FITTING POSITION

Where the installer explains the intended fitting position and the Customer allows the installation to proceed, the Customer confirms that they are happy for installation to take place in that location.

If the Customer does not agree with the proposed position or method, this must be raised before drilling or fitting proceeds.

We cannot reasonably be expected to reverse permanent drilling solely because a Customer later changes their mind about an installation position which was explained and accepted.

This clause does not excuse installation carried out negligently or contrary to what was agreed.

 

50. DRILLING

Fitting blinds and shutters commonly requires drilling.

The Customer accepts that installation may involve making fixing holes in appropriate surfaces.

Once fittings are removed in the future, fixing holes may remain and cosmetic filling or redecoration may be required.

Unless specifically included, future making-good after removal of the products is not part of the Contract.

 

51. DRILLING INTO uPVC

Certain installations may require fixing into uPVC window or door frames.

Where this fitting method is proposed and the Customer agrees to proceed, the Customer acknowledges that permanent fixing holes will be created.

Drilling or fixing into a window/door product may potentially affect a manufacturer’s or installer’s warranty.

The Customer should check any existing window warranty where this is a concern.

Z&S Blinds Ltd is not responsible for the loss of a third-party warranty solely because the Customer authorised a fitting method which requires drilling, except to the extent that liability arises from our own negligence or other legal responsibility.

 

52. DRILLING INTO TILES, STONE AND BRITTLE SURFACES

Drilling into tile, stone, marble or other brittle materials carries an inherent risk of cracking, particularly where there are:

• hidden defects;

• hollow areas;

• poor adhesion;

• existing fractures;

• weak material; or

• stress within the surface.

We will use reasonable care and skill.

We are not responsible for failure arising solely from a hidden or pre-existing defect that could not reasonably have been detected.

Nothing excludes our responsibility where damage is caused by failure to use reasonable care and skill.

 

53. HIDDEN PIPES, CABLES AND SERVICES

The Customer should tell us about any known:

• electrical cables;

• water pipes;

• gas pipes;

• underfloor heating;

• alarm wiring;

• data cables;

• drainage;

• heating pipes; or

• other concealed services

near proposed fixing locations.

We will take reasonable installation precautions.

However, normal blind surveying does not involve opening walls or carrying out a comprehensive invasive investigation of hidden services.

Responsibility will depend upon the circumstances, including whether a hidden service could reasonably have been detected and whether reasonable care was used.

 

54. CONDITION OF WALLS AND FIXING SURFACES

The Customer is responsible for telling us about known problems affecting the proposed fixing area.

These may include:

• weak plaster;

• blown plaster;

• crumbling masonry;

• hollow walls;

• loose tiles;

• rotten timber;

• defective plasterboard;

• existing cracks;

• unstable lintels;

• defective window frames; or

• previous structural damage.

We will use fixings we consider reasonably suitable based upon the visible condition of the surface.

We are not responsible for damage caused solely by a hidden or pre-existing defect that could not reasonably have been identified beforehand.

 

55. EXISTING CRACKS AND DEFECTS

The Customer should notify our installer of known defects before fitting begins.

Where reasonably useful, we may photograph existing damage before work.

Installation can sometimes reveal an existing defect that was previously hidden behind:

• existing blinds;

• brackets;

• curtains;

• wallpaper;

• paint;

• trim; or

• furniture.

The discovery of an existing defect does not make Z&S Blinds responsible for creating it.

 

56. PLASTER DAMAGE

Drilling can occasionally cause minor local disturbance to fragile or previously weakened plaster.

We will use reasonable care.

Where plaster is old, loose, hollow, previously repaired or otherwise unstable, additional cracking or crumbling may occur despite reasonable workmanship.

The Customer should notify us of known plaster problems.

 

57. DUST AND DEBRIS

Drilling and fitting can generate a small amount of dust or debris.

Installers will take reasonable care, but installation is a building-related activity and a completely dust-free environment cannot be guaranteed.

Customers should remove particularly sensitive possessions from the immediate working area before installation.

 

58. DECORATION AND COSMETIC FINISHES

Removing or replacing existing blinds, brackets or fittings may expose:

• unpainted areas;

• old fixing holes;

• faded paint;

• wallpaper differences;

• previous filler;

• marks;

• silicone;

• adhesive; or

• other pre-existing cosmetic differences.

Unless specifically included in the quotation, decorating, filling, painting, plastering, wallpaper repair or other cosmetic making-good is not included.

 

59. REMOVAL OF EXISTING BLINDS

Removal of existing blinds is only included where agreed.

Existing products can conceal holes, defects or decoration differences.

Unless expressly agreed, disposal of removed blinds or fixtures is not automatically included.

 

60. GLASS AND GLAZING

Blinds are often installed close to glazing.

We will exercise reasonable care and skill while fitting.

Glazing may nevertheless fail for reasons unrelated to installation, including:

• existing chips;

• internal stress;

• thermal stress;

• age;

• defective seals;

• manufacturing defects;

• building movement;

• previous impact; or

• structural movement.

Z&S Blinds Ltd is responsible where glazing damage is caused by our failure to exercise reasonable care and skill.

We are not responsible for spontaneous or subsequent glazing failure that is unrelated to our work.

 

61. REPORTING VISIBLE INSTALLATION DAMAGE

The Customer should inspect the installation after completion.

Any visible damage, missing parts or obvious workmanship concerns should preferably be reported immediately and, where reasonably possible, within 24 hours.

Prompt reporting assists us in establishing what occurred and dealing with the issue quickly.

The 24-hour period is not intended to remove or shorten any statutory rights or prevent a Customer reporting a defect that could not reasonably have been discovered within that period.

 

62. INSTALLATION APPOINTMENTS

Installation dates and times will be arranged with the Customer.

Unless expressly guaranteed in writing, arrival times may be approximate because earlier jobs, traffic and other circumstances can affect scheduling.

We will make reasonable efforts to communicate significant delays.

 

63. CUSTOMER UNAVAILABLE OR PROPERTY NOT READY

If we attend an agreed appointment and cannot reasonably complete the work because:

• no authorised person is present;

• access cannot be obtained;

• rooms are inaccessible;

• the installation area is obstructed;

• building work prevents installation;

• the property is unsafe; or

• another Customer-controlled issue prevents work,

a reasonable additional visit charge may apply.

 

64. PARKING AND ACCESS RESTRICTIONS

The Customer should tell us before installation of unusual parking, loading, access or building restrictions.

This is especially important for:

• controlled buildings;

• gated developments;

• permit-only parking;

• concierge access;

• loading restrictions;

• high-rise buildings; or

• restricted working hours.

Additional costs arising from restrictions not disclosed in advance may be chargeable where reasonable.

 

65. HIGH-LEVEL ACCESS

Standard installation pricing assumes normal domestic access unless otherwise stated.

Where installation requires specialist:

• scaffolding;

• tower equipment;

• powered access;

• unusually high ladders; or

• other specialist access equipment,

additional costs may apply.

This should normally be identified during survey where visible.

 

66. INSTALLATION COMPLETION

After installation, the Customer will be given a reasonable opportunity to inspect the Goods and installation.

Where relevant, the installer may demonstrate operation.

The Customer should check:

• the correct products have been supplied;

• visible colours and fabrics correspond with the Order;

• blinds operate;

• obvious damage is not present;

• controls are understood; and

• any immediate concerns are raised.

 

67. CUSTOMER ABSENT AT COMPLETION

Where the Customer has arranged for another adult or representative to provide access and oversee installation, we may reasonably treat that person as authorised to deal with ordinary installation matters unless we have been told otherwise beforehand.

This does not remove the Customer’s statutory rights.

 

68. CARE AND OPERATION

The Customer must use the Goods reasonably and follow any operating or care instructions provided.

Blinds should not be:

• forced;

• pulled sideways;

• overloaded;

• used as toys;

• climbed on;

• subjected to excessive impact; or

• operated where an obvious obstruction is preventing movement.

Where a blind stops unexpectedly, the Customer should avoid repeatedly forcing the mechanism.

 

69. CLEANING

Different materials require different cleaning methods.

Customers should follow applicable manufacturer guidance.

Unless expressly recommended for the particular product, Goods should not be cleaned using:

• abrasive chemicals;

• bleach;

• excessive water;

• steam;

• solvents; or

• aggressive scrubbing.

Damage caused by inappropriate cleaning is not a manufacturing defect.

 

70. CHILD SAFETY

Child safety is extremely important.

We will supply and/or install child-safety devices required for the product and installation in accordance with applicable product-safety requirements and relevant manufacturer instructions.

Where a safety device forms part of the safe installation, it must not be removed, bypassed or disabled at the Customer’s request.

Customers must not subsequently:

• remove safety devices;

• relocate them incorrectly;

• loosen tension devices;

• create dangerous cord/chain loops; or

• modify the blind in a way that creates a safety hazard.

Children’s beds, cots and climbable furniture should be kept away from blind cords and chains.

If a child-safety device becomes loose, damaged or missing, the blind should not be used in an unsafe condition and the Customer should arrange appropriate repair.

 

71. SAFETY AFTER THIRD-PARTY DECORATION

If decorators, builders, window installers or others remove a blind or safety device, the Customer must ensure that it is correctly and safely reinstated.

Z&S Blinds is not responsible for an unsafe condition created after installation by a third party.

 

72. THIRD-PARTY INTERFERENCE

Our warranty does not cover damage caused by third-party alteration or interference.

Examples include work carried out by:

• builders;

• decorators;

• cleaners;

• electricians;

• window companies;

• maintenance contractors;

• tenants;

• family members;

• unauthorised repairers; or

• other third parties.

This exclusion only applies where the third-party act caused or contributed to the relevant problem.

 

73. BUILDING MOVEMENT

Buildings can move over time.

Settlement or structural movement can alter window openings and affect previously fitted blinds or shutters.

Problems arising solely because the building or window subsequently changed position are not manufacturing or installation defects.

 

74. LEAD TIMES

Any manufacturing or installation lead time is normally an estimate unless expressly guaranteed in writing.

Lead times can be affected by:

• bespoke manufacture;

• supplier availability;

• material shortages;

• quality-control remakes;

• transport disruption;

• customs/import delays;

• staff illness;

• adverse weather; or

• events beyond reasonable control.

We will make reasonable efforts to complete Orders within the anticipated period.

 

75. SUPPLIER OR MANUFACTURER DELAYS

Some products and components are supplied or manufactured by third parties.

If an external delay occurs, we will take reasonable steps to keep the Customer informed and minimise unnecessary delay.

Nothing in this clause allows us to avoid legal responsibility where the law requires performance within a particular or reasonable time.

 

76. PRODUCT DISCONTINUATION

Manufacturers occasionally discontinue:

• fabrics;

• colours;

• components;

• motors;

• accessories; or

• product ranges.

If an item becomes unavailable before manufacture, we will discuss reasonable alternatives.

We will not substitute a materially different product without Customer agreement.

 

77. STORAGE WHERE CUSTOMER DELAYS INSTALLATION

Where Goods are ready but the Customer asks us to postpone installation for a substantial period, we may ask the Customer to arrange a reasonable installation date.

If prolonged storage creates genuine additional cost or risk, we may discuss reasonable storage arrangements or charges in advance.

 

78. OUR 12-MONTH WARRANTY

In addition to statutory rights, Z&S Blinds Ltd provides a 12-month warranty from the installation date, unless a different written warranty is expressly stated for a particular product.

The warranty generally covers faults arising from:

• manufacturing defects;

• assembly defects; and

• mechanical failure under normal use.

Depending upon the fault, our remedy may involve:

• adjustment;

• repair;

• replacement of a component; or

• replacement of the affected product where appropriate.

The appropriate remedy will depend upon the nature of the problem.

 

79. WARRANTY EXCLUSIONS

Our additional 12-month warranty does not normally cover faults caused by:

• accidental damage;

• misuse;

• abuse;

• excessive force;

• neglect;

• unauthorised alteration;

• incorrect cleaning;

• water damage;

• fire;

• flooding;

• excessive moisture;

• pet damage;

• child damage;

• impact;

• third-party interference;

• unauthorised repairs;

• failure to follow instructions;

• removal and incorrect refitting;

• normal environmental fading;

• normal wear and tear; or

• damage caused by changes to the building/window after installation.

An exclusion applies only where the excluded event caused or materially contributed to the problem.

 

80. WARRANTY AND STATUTORY RIGHTS

Our 12-month warranty is an additional contractual warranty.

It does not replace, shorten or restrict your legal rights.

A Customer may have statutory rights extending beyond the 12-month warranty period depending upon the circumstances.

 

81. WARRANTY CALL-OUTS

Where a reported issue appears potentially covered by our warranty or statutory obligations, we may arrange inspection.

If inspection establishes that there is no fault with the supplied Goods or installation and the issue was caused by something outside our responsibility, any charge for further optional work will be explained before chargeable work is undertaken.

We will not impose a warranty call-out charge where we are legally responsible for rectifying the fault.

 

82. REPAIRS AND REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

Where a repair is possible, replacing an individual component may be more appropriate than replacing an entire blind.

Replacement parts may occasionally differ slightly in appearance from older parts because manufacturers update components and finishes.

If the exact original component has been discontinued, a reasonably compatible replacement may be offered where appropriate.

 

83. MATCHING REPLACEMENTS

If a blind or fabric needs replacement at a later date, an exact visual match to surrounding products cannot always be guaranteed because of:

• batch variations;

• ageing;

• fading;

• product redesign;

• discontinued material; or

• supplier changes.

We will take reasonable steps to achieve an appropriate match where practicable.

 

84. NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR

Products containing moving components will experience normal wear during their lifetime.

The existence of normal wear does not automatically mean the product was defective when supplied.

Expected lifespan can vary substantially according to:

• frequency of use;

• product size;

• environment;

• care;

• installation conditions; and

• mechanism type.

 

85. PHOTOGRAPHIC INSTALLATION RECORDS

Z&S Blinds Ltd may take reasonable photographs or videos before, during or after installation where reasonably required for legitimate business purposes, including:

• measuring and survey records;

• order management;

• quality control;

• evidence of pre-existing property conditions;

• recording the condition of fitting areas;

• recording completed installation work;

• warranty and aftercare records;

• insurance purposes;

• complaint investigation;

• dispute resolution; and

• legal proceedings where necessary.

These photographs or videos are primarily intended to record the products, fitting areas and condition of the installation.

Where reasonably practicable, we will avoid unnecessarily capturing people, personal documents, private information or unrelated personal items.

Any personal information contained within such records will be handled in accordance with applicable UK data-protection law and our Privacy Policy.

 

86. PHOTOGRAPHS OF COMPLETED INSTALLATIONS FOR MARKETING

Following completion of an installation, Z&S Blinds Ltd may ask to take photographs or videos of the finished blinds, shutters or other window coverings for our portfolio and marketing purposes.

With the Customer’s permission, these photographs or videos may be used for purposes including:

• the Z&S Blinds Ltd website;

• social media platforms;

• online advertising;

• printed promotional material;

• our business portfolio;

• examples of previous work; and

• showing prospective Customers examples of products and completed installations.

Marketing photographs and videos will be intended to focus on the blinds, shutters or window coverings supplied and installed by us.

We will take reasonable steps not to intentionally include:

• the Customer or other individuals;

• children;

• personal photographs or portraits;

• names or personal documents;

• house numbers or addresses;

• vehicle registration numbers; or

• other information that clearly identifies the Customer.

Where reasonably practicable, identifiable information accidentally appearing in an image may be cropped, blurred, obscured or otherwise removed before public use.

Acceptance of these Terms does not, by itself, provide blanket permission for us to publicly publish identifiable photographs of a Customer’s home.

Where appropriate, the Customer’s permission will be obtained before photographs or videos of a completed installation are used for public marketing purposes.

A Customer is free to decline marketing photography or marketing use of photographs.

Refusing permission will not affect the Customer’s quotation, Order, installation, warranty, aftercare or statutory rights.

 

87. DATA PROTECTION

We may process Customer information reasonably required to:

• prepare quotations;

• process Orders;

• arrange appointments;

• take payment;

• manufacture Goods;

• provide installation;

• communicate with Customers;

• provide warranty support;

• maintain business records;

• comply with legal obligations; and

• resolve complaints or disputes.

Personal information will be handled in accordance with applicable UK data-protection legislation and our Privacy Policy.

 

88. COMMUNICATION

Customers should provide accurate contact details.

We may contact Customers regarding their Order using reasonable communication methods such as:

• telephone;

• SMS;

• WhatsApp;

• email; or

• other contact details supplied by the Customer.

Marketing communications will be treated separately in accordance with applicable requirements.

 

89. RESPONSIBILITY FOR OUR WORK

We will perform installation and other services with reasonable care and skill.

We are responsible for damage caused by our negligence or breach of Contract where the law makes us responsible.

We are not responsible for loss or damage caused solely by:

• a pre-existing defect;

• a hidden defect which could not reasonably have been identified;

• inaccurate information supplied by the Customer;

• unauthorised third-party interference;

• misuse;

• failure to follow safety/operating instructions; or

• an event outside our responsibility.

 

90. FORESEEABLE LOSS

Where the Customer is a consumer, we are responsible for foreseeable loss or damage caused by our breach of Contract or failure to use reasonable care and skill.

Loss or damage is foreseeable where it is an obvious consequence or where both parties knew at the time of entering the Contract that it might reasonably occur.

Nothing in these Terms attempts to exclude liability which the law does not permit us to exclude.

 

91. BUSINESS LOSSES

Where a Customer purchases Goods wholly for private/domestic use, we do not accept responsibility for business losses that are unrelated to the consumer purpose of the Contract, to the extent permitted by law.

Business customers may be subject to separately agreed commercial terms.

 

92. LIABILITY THAT IS NEVER EXCLUDED

Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

This includes liability for matters such as:

• death or personal injury caused by negligence;

• fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation; and

• statutory consumer rights which cannot legally be excluded.

 

93. GOODS AND CONSUMER RIGHTS

Where applicable, Goods must meet the requirements imposed by consumer law, including being:

• of satisfactory quality;

• fit for their normal purpose and any particular purpose properly made known and accepted;

• as described; and

• otherwise compliant with applicable legal requirements.

Nothing in these Terms overrides these rights.

 

94. SERVICES AND CONSUMER RIGHTS

Where applicable, installation and other services must be performed with reasonable care and skill.

Where a service does not conform to the Contract, statutory remedies may include repeat performance or an appropriate price reduction depending upon the circumstances.

Nothing in these Terms restricts those remedies.

 

95. OPPORTUNITY TO RECTIFY

Where a Customer believes work is defective, they should contact us promptly and provide reasonable details.

Where appropriate, we ask that we are given a reasonable opportunity to:

• inspect the issue;

• establish the cause;

• adjust the product;

• repair it;

• replace an affected component; or

• otherwise provide an appropriate remedy.

This provision does not remove any right the Customer has under law.

 

96. CUSTOMER ARRANGING THIRD-PARTY REPAIR

Except in a genuine emergency or where legally justified, Customers should normally give us a reasonable opportunity to inspect an alleged defect before employing a third party to alter or repair our work and then seeking reimbursement.

Unauthorised third-party work may make it more difficult to determine the original cause of a problem.

This clause does not prevent the Customer taking reasonable steps where circumstances genuinely require urgent action.

 

97. EVENTS OUTSIDE REASONABLE CONTROL

We will not be treated as having breached the Contract merely because performance is temporarily prevented or materially delayed by an event genuinely beyond our reasonable control.

Examples can include:

• severe weather;

• natural disasters;

• major transport disruption;

• supplier shutdown;

• industrial action;

• widespread power failure;

• government restrictions;

• import disruption;

• civil emergency;

• serious illness;

• fire;

• flood; or

• other comparable events.

We will take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

Where an event continues for an unreasonable period, any rights available to either party under applicable law remain unaffected.

 

98. COMPLAINTS

We want to resolve genuine complaints fairly and promptly.

A Customer wishing to complain should contact:

Z&S Blinds Ltd

Email: info@zsblinds.co.uk

Telephone: 07918 845 608

Please provide where possible:

• name;

• installation address;

• order/invoice number;

• description of the issue;

• photographs or video where relevant; and

• the remedy requested.

We may ask to inspect the Goods before reaching a conclusion.

 

99. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

If a consumer complaint cannot be resolved through our internal complaint process, we will provide information about any appropriate Alternative Dispute Resolution or other dispute-resolution arrangement available to the Customer, and whether we are required or prepared to participate, in accordance with applicable law.

Nothing in this section prevents either party exercising any legal right to bring a claim before an appropriate court.

 

100. SEVERABILITY

If any particular provision of these Terms is found to be unlawful, invalid or unenforceable, that provision will be treated as modified or removed only to the extent necessary.

The remainder of the Terms will continue to apply so far as legally possible.

 

101. NO WAIVER

If either party does not immediately enforce a right under the Contract, this does not necessarily mean that the right has been permanently waived.

 

102. CHANGES TO THESE TERMS

We may update these standard Terms from time to time.

The version applying to an individual Order will normally be the version made available to the Customer when that Contract was entered into, unless a later change is expressly agreed or required by law.

 

103. GOVERNING LAW

These Terms and Contracts with Z&S Blinds Ltd are governed by the law of England and Wales, subject to any mandatory consumer protection rules which apply.

Nothing in these Terms removes a consumer’s right to bring proceedings in a court which applicable law entitles them to use.

 

104. CUSTOMER ORDER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

By accepting the quotation and/or paying the required deposit, the Customer confirms that they have had the opportunity to read these Terms and that, to the best of their knowledge:

• the Order details are correct;

• the required product specification has been approved;

• the selected colour/fabric/material has been approved;

• control options have been approved where relevant;

• the Customer understands that the Goods are made to measure;

• the Customer understands that manufacture may begin after the Order is placed;

• the Customer understands the cancellation provisions;

• known structural or installation concerns have been disclosed;

• known hidden services relevant to the fitting area have been disclosed;

• access will be provided for installation; and

• the Customer understands that statutory rights remain unaffected.

 

105. INSTALLATION AND FITTING ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Before or during fitting, the Customer should raise any concern about the proposed fitting location or method.

Where the fitting position and method have been explained and the Customer permits the fitter to proceed, the Customer confirms their agreement to that fitting position and method.

 

This may include authorised drilling into:

• recesses;

• walls;

• ceilings;

• timber;

• uPVC;

• window frames;

• doors; or

• other agreed fixing surfaces.

If the Customer does not agree with the proposed fitting method, they must inform the installer before the relevant drilling or installation takes place.

This acknowledgement does not exclude our responsibility for negligent installation.

 

 

106. COMPLETION ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Following completion, the Customer should inspect the installation.

Where the Customer signs or otherwise confirms completion, this records that at the time of inspection:

• the installation has been completed except for any recorded snagging items;

• the Customer has had an opportunity to inspect the Goods;

• the controls have been demonstrated where reasonably necessary;

• any immediately visible issues should be recorded;

• any agreed fitting position has been accepted; and

• any remaining balance is dealt with in accordance with the Contract.

Signing a completion record does not remove statutory rights or prevent the Customer reporting a hidden fault which could not reasonably have been identified during the inspection.

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FINAL IMPORTANT NOTICE

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These Terms form part of the agreement between the Customer and Z&S Blinds Ltd.

Customers should retain a copy together with their quotation, invoice and order information.

Nothing contained in these Terms is intended to exclude, restrict or replace rights or remedies that a consumer is legally entitled to under applicable UK law.

 

Z & S Blinds Ltd

Company Number: 13397164

Email: info@zsblinds.co.uk

Telephone: 07918 845 608

Website: www.zsblinds.com

 

 

© Z & S Blinds Ltd. All rights reserved.

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