AS THE Christmas shopping frenzy is beginning to approach its peak many people are rushing to buy the latest must-have gadgets and toys or looking forward to the sales.
The ‘Know Your Consumer Rights’ campaign, launched earlier this year, is reminding people not to forget their rights through the festive period.
The key rules highlighted by the campaign are:
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Goods must fit the description given
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Goods must be of satisfactory quality
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Goods must be fit for purpose
Do I have the same rights if I buy something in the sales?
Yes. If something is faulty, mis-described or not fit for purpose then it doesn’t matter if it was full price or in the sale – you are entitled to your money back. However, it is up to an individual retailer whether they want to take back an item because you have changed your mind.
What about unwanted gifts?
Again, it is up to the individual store whether they want to take back unwanted gifts. Our advice would be to check with the retailer when you buy the gift and consider asking for a gift receipt.
Do I have any rights if I buy from the internet?
Yes. You actually have additional rights when you buy a gift from an internet retailer. You have a ‘cooling off’ period of seven days (unless the gift is custom made) during which any order can be cancelled or returned without any reason being given and they must give you a full refund.
If my new gadget breaks on Boxing Day who should give me a refund – the manufacturer or the retailer?
When you buy something your contract is with the retailer and not the manufacturer – therefore if the goods are not up to scratch then it is the retailer who should give you a refund or replacement or repair the item concerned.
What protection is there for credit card purchases?
If you use a credit card to buy goods or services costing over £100 and up to £30,000, you may be protected under the Consumer Credit Act. This states that the credit card company is equally liable for any breach of contract, so if a problem arises you can claim from the trader or the credit card company.
How can I find out more about my rights?
If you’ve paid for something and you’re not happy, establishing your rights is the first step towards claiming the refund, repair or replacement you may be entitled to.
Consumer Direct is a government-funded advice service for consumers and should be your first port of call for practical help with how to complain.
For more information go to www.consumerdirect.gov.uk or call the helpline 08454 04 05 06. There’s also a quiz on the website where you can test your knowledge of consumer rights and win £150 of shopping vouchers.
Consumer Minister Kevin Brennan, representing the department for Business, Innovation and Skills, said: “We want to see a big improvement in the awareness of this consumer protection available, and of consumer rights in general.
“You are much more likely to get a fair deal, save money and get the right result if you are aware of your rights. This is especially important at Christmas when most people are spending money both on gifts and in the sales.”
Shoppers are advised to contact Consumer Direct www.consumerdirect.gov.uk if they need any further advice.
They can also test their knowledge of consumer rights by taking part in a quick quiz on website where they will have the chance of winning £150 of shopping vouchers each month.