Return policy and warranty.
Every Laika is built to order for one player. Returns are accepted only by approved request, and only for verified manufacturing defects. The full terms below apply to every order.
Effective date: August 31, 2026 · Laika Guitars, San Francisco, California
1. All instruments are custom-built
Every Laika guitar and bass is made to order to the specifications you select or approve (model, finish, options and add-ons). Because each instrument is produced specifically for you, all sales are final. We do not accept returns, exchanges or cancellations for change of mind, playing preference, or any reason other than a verified manufacturing defect, as set out below.
By placing an order and submitting payment you acknowledge that the instrument is a custom-made, personalized good and that you have reviewed and accepted the specifications shown in your configuration and/or written spec sheet. Where local law provides a withdrawal or "cooling-off" right for distance purchases, you acknowledge that such rights do not apply to goods made to the consumer’s specifications or clearly personalized, to the extent permitted by applicable law.
2. Warranty: manufacturing defects only
Each instrument is covered by a two (2) year limited warranty against manufacturing defects, beginning on the date of delivery, for the original purchaser only, and is non-transferable.
A manufacturing defect means a fault in materials or workmanship present at the time of delivery, such as structural failure of a joint or component under normal use, or non-functioning electronics as delivered.
The warranty does not cover: normal wear and tear (including fret wear, finish wear, scratches and dents arising from use); intentional aging or "relic" treatments, which are decorative distressing you ordered; natural characteristics of wood, including grain, colour variation, and minor movement due to humidity or temperature; damage caused by accident, misuse, neglect, improper storage, humidity or temperature extremes, or unauthorized modification or repair; strings, setup preferences, and subjective matters of feel or tone; damage occurring in transit after delivery, or caused by carriers on shipments you arranged; colour differences between photographs on this website and the delivered instrument.
3. Returns require prior written approval
No return may be shipped to us without a written Return Authorization issued by Laika Guitars. Contact us first at laikaguitars@gmail.com (or Telegram/WhatsApp) with your order details, a description of the claimed defect, and clear photographs and/or video. We may request additional documentation.
Unauthorized returns — packages sent without a written Return Authorization — may be refused, returned at the sender’s expense, or held without any obligation to refund.
Claims must be reported promptly: visible transit damage within 48 hours of delivery (keep all packaging and photograph it), and any other claimed defect within fourteen (14) days of discovery.
4. Remedies
If we verify a manufacturing defect, we will, at our sole discretion: (a) repair the instrument; (b) replace the defective part or instrument; or (c) refund the purchase price upon return of the instrument in the condition received. Repair or replacement is the primary remedy; a refund is offered where repair or replacement is not practicable.
For approved warranty claims we cover reasonable return shipping using the method we designate. If a returned instrument is inspected and no manufacturing defect is found, the instrument will be returned to you and shipping costs in both directions are your responsibility.
5. Order accuracy and acceptance
Before production begins we confirm your specification in writing. Your payment and/or written confirmation of the spec sheet constitutes acceptance of the specification. An instrument that matches the accepted specification is not defective by reason of the specification itself.
Delivery estimates (production and shipping times) are good-faith estimates, not guarantees, and reasonable delays do not entitle the buyer to cancellation or refund.
6. Limitation of liability
To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law: our total liability for any claim arising out of or relating to an order is limited to the amount you paid for that order; and we are not liable for indirect, incidental, special or consequential damages, including lost profits, lost performances or engagements, or replacement rental costs.
Nothing in this policy excludes or limits any liability that cannot be excluded or limited under applicable law, or affects statutory rights that cannot be waived. If any provision of this policy is held unenforceable, the remaining provisions remain in effect.
7. Chargebacks and disputes
By purchasing you agree to contact us and allow a reasonable opportunity to resolve any issue under this policy before initiating a payment dispute or chargeback. Payment records, your accepted specification, build photographs and delivery tracking may be provided to payment providers as evidence in any dispute.
8. Governing law
This policy is governed by the laws of the State of California, USA, without regard to conflict-of-law rules, except where the mandatory consumer law of your country of residence applies and provides otherwise.
Questions or a claim?
Email laikaguitars@gmail.com, or message us on Telegram or WhatsApp. Include your order details and photos, and we will respond promptly.