Herman Miller warranty explained: length, cover and claims

How long is the warranty?

Herman Miller has long offered a 12-year warranty on most of its office chairs, including the Aeron, Embody, Mirra 2 and Sayl, covering use across multiple shifts. Some components, such as certain fabrics and finishes, have shorter terms. The exact length and cover are listed per product on Herman Miller's website.

The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover normal wear, damage from misuse, or cosmetic changes such as fading.

Who is covered

Herman Miller's warranty is generally for the original purchaser who bought from Herman Miller or an authorised dealer. That has two consequences. Chairs bought from unauthorised sellers may not be covered, even if new. And second-hand chairs are usually not covered for the new owner.

Before buying new from a marketplace, check that the seller is an authorised Herman Miller dealer. Keep the invoice, which you will need to claim.

How to make a claim

Contact the dealer you bought from, or Herman Miller customer service, with your proof of purchase, the chair's model and serial details and a description or photos of the fault. The label under the seat usually shows the model and manufacture date. Herman Miller or the dealer will usually send a replacement part or arrange a repair.

1. 1

   Find your invoice or order confirmation

2. 2

   Note the model and details from the label under the seat

3. 3

   Photograph the fault

4. 4

   Contact the dealer or Herman Miller

5. 5

   Follow their instructions for parts or repair

Common parts claimed

Common faults on older chairs include gas lifts that sink, worn arm pads, tilt mechanisms that lose tension and mesh that wears or tears. Some of these count as wear rather than defects, so the outcome depends on the fault and the chair's age.

Outside warranty, many parts are available from Herman Miller and specialist resellers. Our sinking chair guide and gas cylinder guide cover common fixes.

Buying used with the warranty in mind

A used Herman Miller chair is often good value, but price it as a chair without warranty. Some refurbishers give their own warranty, typically shorter than Herman Miller's. Our used Herman Miller buying guide lists what to inspect.

If a long manufacturer warranty matters to you, buy new from an authorised seller. Our why Herman Miller is expensive article covers what else the price includes.

Looking after a chair under warranty

Warranty cover assumes normal use. Follow the care instructions for cleaning mesh and fabric, avoid harsh solvents, and do not stand on the chair or sit on the arms. Keep the chair away from radiators and direct heat, which can damage mesh and plastics over time.

Register the chair with Herman Miller if your region offers registration, and keep the invoice somewhere safe, ideally a digital copy. If you move house, note that the chair should be moved carefully, with the back and arms protected, as transit damage is usually not covered.

Warranties on other chairs

Mid-range chairs often come with warranties of two to five years, and a few brands offer longer. Read what is covered: some cover the frame for years but the gas lift, mechanism and fabric for less. Our Herman Miller alternatives guide and ergonomic office chairs guide compare chairs on adjustment, and listings give warranty details.

See Herman Miller alternatives →

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Herman Miller warranty? Typically 12 years on most office chair parts, with shorter cover on some components. Check the product page.

Is the Herman Miller warranty transferable? Generally no. It applies to the original purchaser from an authorised seller.

Does Amazon count as an authorised seller? Only if the specific seller is an authorised Herman Miller dealer. Check before buying.

How do I claim on a Herman Miller warranty? Contact the dealer or Herman Miller with proof of purchase, model details and photos of the fault.