Consumer
Advice - Refunds
If goods are defective or have been misdescribed, a consumer
has a number of rights and remedies.
Where goods prove defective or to have been misdescribed
within six months of delivery, it's presumed that the problem
existed at the time of purchase, unless the seller can prove
to the contrary.
If a consumer returns goods very soon after purchase, he/she
is entitled to a full refund. If not, a consumer is first
and foremost entitled to have goods repaired or replaced,
provided this can be done within a reasonable time and without
significant inconvenience to the consumer.
If repair and/or replacement of the goods is unreasonable/impossible,
then a dissatisfied consumer is entitled to an appropriate
price reduction or a refund. Note, however, that this refund
may be reduced to take account of wear and tear.
Don't be misled into thinking that you must accept a credit
note or prove an action against the manufacturers (such as,
under a guarantee). Rights are first and foremost enforceable
against the shop.
No refunds
If you see a notice/sign to this effect in a shop be aware
that it doesn't affect your statutory rights and remedies
as outlined above. A shop can't legally exclude a consumer's
right to a full refund in relation to defective or misdescribed
goods which are returned promptly after purchase.
In fact, a shop will have committed a criminal offence and
should be reported to Trading Standards Department of your
local authority. Trading Standards may investigate and, if
appropriate, decide to prosecute the offending store.
Practical advice on refunds
* Check goods thoroughly before you buy them.
* Seek redress from the shop immediately you become aware
of a problem.
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