Wickes Customer Left Without Hob for Three Months Following Kitchen Installation Nightmare
A customer of home improvement retailer Wickes has revealed a distressing ordeal where they have been without a working hob in their new kitchen for three full months. The situation began when an emergency engineer was compelled to disconnect the appliance due to a dangerous gas leak discovered after installation.
Gas Leak Discovered Months After Installation
In a detailed account shared with a national newspaper, the customer explained that during the installation of their new kitchen by Wickes, they noticed an unusual and intensifying smell, which they initially attributed to the ongoing construction work. It was nearly two months later that they realized the odor was actually gas.
An emergency engineer from their gas supplier was dispatched and identified a leak in the newly fitted hob, classifying it as an immediate hazard. The gas supply to the hob was promptly disconnected for safety reasons.
Replacement Hob Delivered but Never Installed
Wickes did send a replacement hob to address the issue; however, no one arrived to install it, leaving the customer with two unusable hobs. Compounding the problem, the customer is currently undergoing cancer treatment, making them particularly vulnerable.
The lack of cooking facilities has severely impacted their diet, and the resulting anxiety and stress are adversely affecting their health condition. Despite being aware of these circumstances, Wickes failed to respond to repeated requests for assistance.
Media Intervention Sparks Swift Action
The high street chain, which operates several branches in Birmingham, only sprang into action after the national newspaper became involved in the case. According to reports, within 48 hours of media contact, Wickes arranged for the old hob to be removed, the new one connected, and a gas safety certificate issued.
Widespread Reports of Wickes Kitchen Nightmares
On social media platforms like Facebook, numerous other customers have shared similar horror stories regarding Wickes kitchen installations. One individual described their experience as a disaster from day one, with issues persisting for nearly two years.
- The installer cut compact laminate inside the home, filling it with hazardous dust and smoke.
- Wickes' own assessing fitter later condemned the installation as the worst he had ever seen, recommending the entire kitchen be ripped out and replaced.
- Problems included unsafe plumbing leading to flooding, poorly cut worktops patched with silicone, cardboard used to level surfaces, and splashbacks bonded so badly that removal would damage walls.
Despite overwhelming evidence and their own fitter's findings, Wickes ignored the complaints and repeatedly failed to send a manager to inspect the kitchen. Instead of addressing the defects, the company attempted to declare the kitchen functional and even tried to activate finance repayments while the installation was still under dispute.
This case highlights significant concerns about customer service and safety standards in home improvement projects, particularly for vulnerable individuals relying on these essential services.
