2008
Complaints about defective goods topped the consumer complaints league in the first half of the year, accounting for more than a quarter of all calls to Consumer Direct.
During the six month period to the end of June, the government advice service received more than 120,000 complaints about defective goods. The top five problem areas were second hand cars, furniture, audio-visual equipment, large domestic appliances and personal computers.
Goods bought from shops and online traders must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and match their description. If they are not, shoppers may be able to claim a repair, replacement, or a partial or full refund.
Michele Shambrook, Operations Manager from Consumer Direct says: 'If you buy a product that's faulty you may be entitled to a refund, repair or replacement. It's worth checking where you stand as you may have more protection than you think. '
Consumer Direct has the following list of tips for people who have bought faulty goods:
- Keep all receipts as proof of purchase as this could help you when making a claim.
- If a product is faulty as soon as you get it home, stop using it and contact the shop (rather than the manufacturer) straightaway, as you may be able to 'reject' it and claim a full refund.
- If you have had some use out of the product you may lose your right to a full refund, but you could be entitled to a repair, like for like replacement or partial refund.
- Under remedies introduced in 2003, if a fault occurs within the first six months after purchase, it's up to the trader to prove that the fault was not present at the time of sale.
Anyone unclear about their rights or unsure how to make a claim can call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or visit the website at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
