Terms & Conditions

All instruments are made to order unless otherwise stated. Specifications, materials, and design details will be agreed prior to commencement of work.

Once construction has begun, significant changes may not be possible and may incur additional costs.

A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure a commission and begin work. This confirms the order and covers materials, workshop time allocation, and initial build costs.

The remaining balance is due upon completion of the instrument and prior to delivery or shipment. Instruments will not be released until full payment has been received.

If a commission is cancelled after work has begun, the deposit is retained.

All prices are quoted exclusive of VAT. Should VAT become applicable, customers will be informed in advance.

Each instrument is individually handcrafted using natural materials. Variations in grain, colour, weight, dimensions, and tonal response are inherent and do not constitute defects.

Estimated build times are provided in good faith but are not guaranteed. Delays may occur due to material availability, drying and curing processes, workshop scheduling, or unforeseen circumstances.

All instruments are constructed from natural materials that respond to changes in humidity and temperature.

Wood movement may affect action height, neck relief, and setup over time. Recommended storage conditions are 45–65% relative humidity and stable temperature.

Damage or structural movement resulting from improper environmental conditions is not considered a manufacturing defect.

Instruments are set up prior to delivery. However, seasonal or environmental changes may require minor adjustments.

These include, but are not limited to, action adjustment, saddle adjustment, and normal neck relief changes. Such maintenance is the responsibility of the owner.

The instrument is finished in traditional French polish.

This finish is thin and acoustically responsive but sensitive to heat, moisture, alcohol, and prolonged contact with perspiration. Surface dulling, marking, or wear in playing areas is normal and expected over time and does not constitute a defect.

Cleaning should be carried out using a soft, dry cloth only.

The instrument is designed for standard classical guitar use under normal string tension.

Damage caused by misuse, impact, modification, improper setup by third parties, or abnormal conditions is not covered.

The customer must inspect the instrument upon delivery.

Any concerns relating to workmanship must be reported in writing within 14 days of receipt.

Where a manufacturing defect is confirmed, reasonable repair or remedial work will be carried out at no cost to the customer.

Issues arising from environmental conditions, setup adjustment, normal wear, or finish ageing are not considered defects.

Instruments are securely packaged and shipped via appropriate courier services.

Risk transfers to the customer upon dispatch unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Import duties, taxes, and customs charges are the responsibility of the buyer.

Due to the bespoke nature of commissioned instruments, returns and refunds are not accepted once construction has begun.

Where a valid defect is identified, appropriate remedial work will be offered.

All designs, construction methods, and bracing systems remain the intellectual property of Edward Hempton Guitars and may not be reproduced without permission.

The maker reserves the right to photograph completed instruments for portfolio and promotional use unless otherwise agreed in writing before commencement.

Every effort is made to meet agreed tonal and playability expectations. However, subjective preference in tone, projection, or response does not constitute grounds for rejection once an instrument has been completed and accepted.

These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

Contact details and correspondence provided during the commissioning process are held securely and used solely for the purpose of fulfilling your order and maintaining necessary records. Your details are not shared with third parties except where required by law or necessary for delivery of your instrument.

All queries relating to these terms should be directed to Edward Hempton Guitars via [email protected].