Frequently Asked Questions: Trading standards

The goods must be of 'satisfactory quality' free from defects, 'fit for their purpose' able to do what they were sold to do and must be 'as described' by the packaging or display sign.  If they do not meet these standards you are entitled to reject them and get your money back.  If the goods are returned within a "reasonable" period (normally a few weeks).  You do not have to accept a repair, a credit note or replacement (although you may want to consider this if you've had the goods for some time). 

You also have the right to require the seller to repair or replace the goods within a reasonable time and without causing you significant inconvenience.  If this would be impossible or the retailer does not repair or replace without inconvenience within a reasonable period you can reuire them to reduce the price of the goods by an appropriate amount of rescind the contract.

Some retailers may argue that any fault is a result of you damaging the goods in which case you would need to prove that this is not the case, perhaps by obtaining an independent expert opinion.  Ultimately you might have to prove your case in Court.  If you had to pay for an expert opinion you can claim the cost of this as well as the refund.

You can find out more about your rights as a consumer when returning goods at the Lancashire Trading Standards website.