# Herman Miller warranty explained: length, cover and claims

Source: https://chairandposture.co.uk/blog/herman-miller-warranty
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Chair and Posture

**In short:** Herman Miller's office chairs typically carry a 12-year warranty on most parts when bought new from Herman Miller or an authorised dealer, with shorter cover on some parts such as fabrics. The warranty usually applies to the original purchaser, so second-hand chairs are often not covered. Check Herman Miller's current UK warranty page for your model, and keep proof of purchase.

A long warranty is one of the reasons people pay more for a Herman Miller chair. But the details matter: what is covered, for how long, whether it transfers to a new owner and how to claim. This explainer sets out how the warranty generally works, based on Herman Miller's published terms, and what to check before buying new or used. Terms can change and vary by region, so always confirm on Herman Miller's own website.

## 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.

| Situation | Usually covered? |
| --- | --- |
| New from Herman Miller or authorised dealer | Yes, per product terms |
| New from unauthorised seller | Check before buying |
| Second-hand from private seller | Usually not |
| Refurbished by a reseller | Reseller's own warranty, if any |
| Normal wear and tear | No |

Warranty at a glance

## 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. Find your invoice or order confirmation
2. Note the model and details from the label under the seat
3. Photograph the fault
4. Contact the dealer or Herman Miller
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](https://chairandposture.co.uk/blog/office-chair-keeps-sinking) and [gas cylinder guide](https://chairandposture.co.uk/blog/replace-office-chair-gas-cylinder) 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](https://chairandposture.co.uk/blog/buying-a-used-herman-miller-chair) lists what to inspect.

If a long manufacturer warranty matters to you, buy new from an authorised seller. Our [why Herman Miller is expensive](https://chairandposture.co.uk/blog/why-is-herman-miller-so-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](https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/best-herman-miller-alternatives) and [ergonomic office chairs guide](https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/best-ergonomic-office-chairs) compare chairs on adjustment, and listings give warranty details.

[See Herman Miller alternatives](https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/best-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.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/best-herman-miller-alternatives
- https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/best-ergonomic-office-chairs
- https://chairandposture.co.uk/best/best-mesh-office-chairs

## Sources

- [Herman Miller UK](https://www.hermanmiller.com/en_gb/)