I should have asked you which version you were using.
I've been testing with r10c
"So it seems it has to be installed into a Winuae directory called Winuae with a kick.rom file already in \roms or findrom.exe will fall on it's arse"
There is a way to install in any directory.
As long is kick rom is in the WinUAE roms folder this will work.
Otherwise you have to edit the AIAB configuration to point to the rom file.
My installation test directory was C:\test\
Thats it, no winuae in the path
Install as normally, then edit the short cut so it reads
Path\winuae.exe -f "path to configuration file"
The configuration file you are pointing at should be the one in the AIAB install directory "path to AIAB folder\configuration\default.uae
I wa trying to replicate your problem with the rom search, but romfind found the roms no matter where I hid them. go figure.
And well done solving your own problem.