Eastman offers a limited lifetime warranty on its fretted instruments, but the details matter. This guide explains what that warranty covers, what it does not cover, who is eligible, and what a UK owner should do if something goes wrong.

Who gets the Eastman warranty?

The warranty applies to the original retail purchaser only. Eastman states that it cannot be transferred or assigned to a later owner, so a used Eastman is not covered simply because the instrument itself is still relatively new.

What does the limited lifetime warranty cover?

Eastman says its fretted instruments are covered against defects in materials, workmanship and electronic components. If a covered fault develops, Eastman may repair the instrument or replace it at its discretion.

If replacement is appropriate and the exact model is no longer available, Eastman says the replacement will be the closest available style without exceeding the original instrument’s purchase price.

What is not covered?

• Subjective complaints about tone.
• Instruments that have been altered or modified.
• Damage caused by misuse, negligence or accidents.
• Shipping damage.
• Damage caused by extreme humidity or temperature.
• Normal wear and tear, including fret wear, worn hardware, scratched or worn finishes and string replacement.

Humidity damage is specifically excluded

This is one of the important exclusions for acoustic and hollow instruments. Eastman specifically warns that its tonewoods react to humidity changes and recommends using appropriate humidity control where needed. Damage caused by extreme humidity or temperature is not covered by the warranty.

What should a UK owner do if there is a warranty problem?

Eastman’s published process is to contact the dealer you bought the instrument from first. The dealer can assess the instrument and then contact Eastman for parts or further evaluation if needed.

If the original dealer has closed or is no longer practical to reach, Eastman says to contact its customer service team so it can direct you to another Eastman dealer for an evaluation.

Do you need to register the guitar?

Eastman provides an instrument registration process and promotes registration alongside its limited lifetime warranty. Keeping your original purchase receipt and dealer information is also sensible because the warranty belongs to the original retail purchaser.

Does changing string gauge affect the warranty?

Eastman says changing string gauge is safe, but a different gauge can affect playability and intonation. It recommends professional installation when moving to a different gauge for the first time. Damage caused by experimental string changes is not covered.

Does the warranty transfer when you sell the guitar?

No. Eastman explicitly states that the warranty is for the original retail purchaser and is not transferable to a subsequent owner.

The short version

If you bought your Eastman new from a retailer and a genuine manufacturing, workmanship or electronics fault appears, start with the supplying dealer. Keep proof of purchase, avoid unauthorised modifications, and do not assume humidity damage, normal wear or accidental damage will be treated as warranty claims.

Looking after an Eastman or buying one used? See our Eastman serial-number dating guide and browse the Eastman model guides.

Source: Eastman Guitars official Limited Lifetime Warranty and FAQ. Warranty terms can change, so check Eastman’s current published terms before making a claim.