The AMUSF Consumer Code of Practice.

The code is intended to reassure consumers that when dealing with a member of the AMUSF they can expect that certain undertakings will be made in respect of quality and service.

Consumers who deal with members of the AMUSF will be able to engage the services of a member in the knowledge that they are approved, capable of undertaking the work to a high standard and covered by public liability insurance.

Additionally, consumers can be further reassured that in the unlikely event of a contract not being completed to their satisfaction, the Association has in place procedures for addressing complaints.

All members subscribing to the code are assessed for quality.

To help us improve our service to consumers we would be pleased to receive details of your experiences.

The Association of Master Upholsterers & Soft Furnishers. Francis Vaughan House, Unit Q1 Capital Point, Capital Business Park, CARDIFF, South Wales, CF3 2PU.

• All members subscribing to the code are required to hold current Public liability Insurance.
  
• Estimates/Quotations.
  All members should issue detailed estimates indicating:
  In the case of ALL domestic contracts - total price including VAT;
  In the case of commercial or contract work – total price exclusive of VAT where appropriate;
  
  All orders should clearly indicate a description of cover materials with particular reference to top cover – supplier, codes, colour references and textile composition;
  Delivery requirements and proposed dates.
  
• Keeping consumers informed.
  Members will keep consumers advised of any unforeseen changes to the cost of the work due to circumstances beyond their control i.e. VAT rate changes, unforeseen or undisclosed damage to the structure of the furniture which may result in extra work etc.
  
• Deposits / Payment.
  It is usual to request a deposit with all orders with any balance being payable on completion of the contract or on terms which may be agreed in writing between the parties.
  
  In all cases payment terms must be made clear on the estimate/quotation which forms an essential part of the contract. In the case of commercial or contract work payment will be as agreed between the parties at the outset and clearly identified on the contract.
  
• Delivery Dates.
  Every attempt is made by members to comply with customers wishes with regard to delivery dates. However, members cannot be held responsible for delays beyond their control.
  
  Where time is of the essence this should be stated on the Estimate/Quotation or Contract.Consumers / clients are required to take delivery or pay in full for contracts or goods within one week of completion – Storage charges may be applied.
  
• Delays.
  Members will keep consumers advised of delays which may affect delivery dates.
  
• Specifications.
  Members will inform consumers of any significant change to the specification of the specified materials with particular reference to colour and shade of primary covering material or drapes.
  
• Members will identify the difference between re-upholstery and recovery as determined by the Association as follows:
  
  Re-upholstery is: Removal of all existing fillings and suspension systems revealing the bare frame. Rebuilding using, where appropriate, in the case of traditional fillings cleaned and carded hair and fibre etc. and or adding new filling materials, suspension systems and finally recovering.
  
  Recovery is: The removal of the decorative covering, making good surface fillings and recovering.
  
• *Over-locking: Loose covers should always be over-locked.
  
• *Over-locking: Fixed upholstery/re-upholstery. There is no hard and fast rule relating to fixed upholstery and over-locking, but the Association recommends that over-locking is carried out where the covers are removable or where the nature of the fabric determines that over-locking may prevent fraying. *However, alternative methods of binding seams may be acceptable.
  
• Customers Own Materials.
  Where a consumer or trade customer provides his/her own materials:
  
• Trade customers are required to certify their supplies meet the current legislation in terms of flammability.
  
• Customers own material / cover.
  Consumers may supply their own cover and when not supplied in the course of business of their’s, there is no requirement for the cover to meet the 1988 Flammability Legislation. However, if the supplied materials are to be incorporated into a NEW supply of furniture, then the cover and other materials should be certified as compliant.
  
• Where a consumer supplies his or her own material the responsibility for the quality and performance of the material (s) is wholly the responsibility of the consumer.
  
• Customers Own Specifications.
  
  Where a consumer or trade customer provides his/her own specifications, for example curtain drop, width or height of seat, size of bespoke furniture, etc., the responsibility lies with the consumer to ensure:
  
  The measurements are accurate,
  The furniture, if it is new, can be delivered (Is access possible)
  
• Obligations:

  Members -

  There is an obligation on the part of the member to comply with specific terms of the code.

  Consumers –

  There is an obligation on the part of the consumer to ensure they understand the order they have placed and the terms relating to the product or service, its delivery and specifications.

  Consumers are also obliged to pay for the service or product in accordance with the member’s terms unless the work or service is unsatisfactory in which case the consumer should take the matter up with the member directly. If unsuccessful the consumer should then refer the matter to the Association.
  
  Both -

  Where a consumer is in dispute with a member there is an obligation on the part of the member to follow the Assocation’s complaints mediation and arbitration procedure, which is impartial. A copy of the procedure is available on request. Alternatively full details may be viewed or downloaded from the Assocation’s web site under inspections.

  The Association of Master Upholsterers & Soft Furnishers. Q1 Capital Point, Capital Business Park, Parkway, Trowbridge, Cardiff CF3 2PU.

The Association of Master Upholsterers & Soft Furnishers is a company
limited by guarantee.