ADVICE
What are Your Rights as a Consumer? by Gurpreet Birdi, Associate Director of Emsley’s Solicitors The Consumer Rights Act 2015 is very useful to have in mind when it comes to buying goods and services. If you have ever wondered about your rights and remedies when making a new purchase, then your first step should be to take a look at the features of this useful piece of legislation! Most of us are familiar with the commonly heard phrases “satisfactory quality” and “fit for purpose” – in fact, you may have used them when returning an item in a store. These phrases could be found in the Sale of Goods Act 1979 and are replicated in the Consumer Rights Act too, which means that the goods you buy must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and conform to any description provided by the seller. Unless you are informed of any specific differences, this right applies. So what are your main remedies when things go wrong?
to engage in the spirit of repair/ replace then the seller needs to be proactive and efficient. This should not become a long drawn out saga or a ‘to me, to you’ routine and nor should you be put to any significant inconvenience as a consumer. Once 30 days have passed, what then? If the goods are still defective, as a consumer you can insist that they be repaired or replaced. If this is not possible (for whatever reason) then you may exercise your ‘final right to reject’. There are other considerations which can come into play, for instance, pre-contractual information and we would always suggest that you seek advice for bigger purchases if you are unsure about your rights.
The best way to summarise the position is to remember that within 30 days of delivery of the defective goods, you can exercise your ‘short term right to reject’ and claim a full refund or expect them to be replaced To speak to a member of Emsleys or repaired. Giving the seller one opportunity only to repair or replace Solicitors Dispute Resolution team, the item(s) is sufficient. If you decide call 0113 232 1030. Familiesonline.co.uk
March/April 17
