Buying Goods

If you buy New goods from a trader the law says they must be:

Of Satisfactory Quality - This means that the goods must work and do their job properly.  Also they should normally be free from minor defects, have reasonable appearance and finish and be safe and durable.  But remember that cheaper goods cannot be expected to be as good as something that is more expensive,

Fit For Their Purpose - This means that if you ask for some for a particular purpose - a carpet for stairs or paint that can be used for radiators - the goods must do that job.

As Described - If any description is given - on the packaging, in an advert, by a sample or anything said by a trader - it must be right.  If a coat is advertised or labeled as 80% wool, it must have 80% wool in it.  If you choose a carpet from a sample in the shop, the carpet supplied must match the sample.  If a trader tells you a handbag is leather, then it cannot be plastic.

If you buy Second Hand goods from a trader the same rules apply, but you have to think about the Age of the goods.  Obviously, the older they are the more wear and tear you must expect.

If you buy New or Second Hand goods and are told they have Specific Faults , you are expected to accept them with these faults.  If the faults are obvious - a table with a large scratch on it - you are also expected to have noticed and accepted the fault.

If you buy goods in a Sale you have the same rights that you would have if you had paid the normal price.

If you order goods by Post or Telephone and they do not arrive within the stated delivery time or with  a reasonable time, say 28 days if no delivery time is given, you can cancel the order and request a refund of any money paid.

If goods become faulty during use your Rights depend upon the fault having been present, although maybe not obvious, when the goods were purchased.  All goods will be affected by fair wear and tear.

Important

• If you have damaged or misused the goods, you have no rights at all
• nothing lasts forever - all goods will wear out in time
• No notices or small print can take away these rights
• If you buy goods privately you have less rights