Consumer Rights

Consumers are people who purchase goods and services to meet their basic needs. Consumers have legal rights to get the product replaced if they find that the product they bought does not meet the quality standards as is mentioned. In the Consumer Protection Act 1986, Consumer Right is defined as the right to be protected against marketing of goods and services which are hazardous to life and property. As a consumer you should ensure that all your rights are effectively used.

If you find the goods purchased are not of good quality, the retailer should sort it out for you, not the manufacturer. The Sale of Goods Act 1979 ensures that goods should be of satisfactory quality and fit to do the job intended for. The time you have to check whether goods are faulty depends on what is reasonable for that product. For example, the time needed to check the fault of a kettle and a boat is of great difference. Consumer should lodge a complaint within a week so that you may be entitled to a full refund.

In the case of payment you have more rights on credit cards than debit cards. This consumer right is for those who have no debts. You can also enjoy extra rights such as earning cash back, cheaper spending while abroad, ID fraud protection etc.

If you purchase through internet, the same rights are applicable as if you go and directly purchase from a shop. The Distance Selling Regulations Act also provides consumer protection. That is, if you order something online by phone, fax or mail, you find it undelivered, as a consumer you have the right for a full refund. You should ensure that the delivery dates of the products are clearly mentioned. If it is not mentioned then the maximum allowed time is 30days from the date of purchase. Consumer complaints can be lodged immediately to the necessary authorities.

If you are planning for a holiday, make sure that the days are booked according to the terms and conditions of the hotel. This is where consumers get caught. If you are not provided with the facilities that are mentioned on their brochure, you can ask for a complaint form there itself. If not, as a consumer, you may lose the right to get any compensation.

In any of these cases if you are unsatisfied, then complain to the trader there and then itself. And only pay what you consider to be a reasonable amount. If you are totally unsatisfied, then pay nothing. If you feel forced to pay, then make a claim against them for distress. Take photos, collect evidences as much as you can and pursue a claim at the Court.

All the above specified rights are for consumer protection. These laws are a form of government regulation which protects the interests of consumers. As a consumer we should be aware of our basic rights and the court that deals with these rights.