It's getting more common for installers of products, to be the final QC inspectors of the products.
Several years ago I did a job for a local fire contractor, piping and wiring several cases of Kiddie smoke alarms, in several existing apartment complex buildings. The fire contractor knew my work quality, and decided that it wasn't necessary to meet me at the site and test the systems with me, before the fire inspection. He went straight away to the fire Marshall for verification testing. Turns out that more than 30% of the detectors didn't function properly. Interlocks didn't work reliably, and some didn't activate at all. Turns out the plug in harness didn't reliably connect, to the back of the detectors. Contacted the wholesale house, and provided some samples. It started a nationwide recall of those model units. I received cases of a different model detectors to replace with, but not a dime for my time.
Right now I have a certified mail notice on my desk from Schneider Electric (Sq D) for a recall of HD 3P disconnects. I'm instructed to go inspect them to test for defects. Presumably the switch does not open with the handle. Problem is I don't recall which jobs they were used on. I'm supposed to go seek them out, on my dime, and replace them for new units after filing a claim, for a replacement switch. The units were operated and tested at the time of installation. I take it that the certified letter, is to place the liability on me, if the units fail to operate at some later time.
I recently read of other switch manufactures having the same problem. I stopped using GE switches many years ago for the exact same reason. Blades not fully engaging, and the switch burning up.
These are all name brand products, made anywhere but here, with little QC inspection or life cycle testing. And then they put the liability and costs on the installer, to cover their a-$. Its shameful what corporate America has become.
MTW