Make sure you understand your consumer rights ahead of Black Friday (29th November 2019) and Cyber Monday (2nd December 2019), as the rules for in-store and online purchases can vary.
I’ve changed my mind
Generally the time limit on returns is 28-days, but many retailers have small variations on this, especially at Christmas when some choose to extend their returns window to cater for any unwanted prezzies.
Legally, if you’re shopping online, Consumer Contract Regulations give you 14-days from receipt of an unused item to request a full refund. For instore purchases you have no such right, so be sure to check the refunds policy before you make a purchase.
My purchase is faulty
The Consumer Rights Act gives shoppers the right to return broken or faulty goods within 30-days and claim your money back in full.
After 30-days your rights don’t end, but the retailer can offer a repair or replacement instead of a refund.
The digital content I’ve bought doesn’t work
Faulty digital content such as apps, ebooks, games and movies work slightly differently to physical products. If there is a problem with your digital purchase then the retailer has a single opportunity to repair or replace the product, then they must provide a refund.
My purchase hasn’t arrived
It is the retailers responsibility to ensure goods are delivered to you, so if your parcel goes missing, arrives damaged or doesn’t turn up at all then the onus is on the retailer to put it right. Don’t feel like you need to chase the delivery company or courier, go straight to the retailer and they should sort out the issue for you.
If you need help or legal advice with regards to consumer law or civil litigation, please get in touch with the specialist solicitors at John Fowlers Solicitors.