Faulty Goods

Faulty Goods

It is important to know your entitlements as a consumer when buying goods. Firstly, anything you purchase should be of satisfactory quality, i.e. they should be 'fit for purpose'. This includes the products overall appearance and durability. It is advisable that you carefully examine the goods and look out for any defects. The product should be free from all defects, and if it does have some, then this should be brought to the attention of the seller. If these goods are not fit for purpose then you should be entitled to a replacement or a repair. This is regardless to the fact that there may be additional warranties on the goods, return policies or disclaimers.

If you notice something wrong with the product

As soon as you notice something wrong with the product, it is important that you stop using it straight away. You should be sensible about this as it may affect your legal claim later if you carry on using it. You should aim to contact the seller as soon as possible and tell them you want to reject the product. Normally you have a few weeks from the the time you buy the product to reject it. It is your right to at least try the product out, however if you are not happy with it, you can get a full refund within a reasonable time limit.

Dealing with the seller

If the seller is notified about the faulty goods and is being unhelpful do not be put off. Under the law, the seller should deal with any complaints to do with the product. If you find that the seller is being unhelpful and you are within the reasonable time limit for rejecting the product, then it is advisable that you write to the seller formally rejecting the product under the Sales of Goods Act.

You should know that it is your right to gain a full refund from your product no matter who the retailer is. The seller cannot by law refuse you a refund if you are claiming within a reasonable time limit. If your seller still refuses to comply with your wishes, politely inform them that you will be starting proceedings in a small claims court. If you wish to seek further legal advice you should contact our specialist solicitors. Our solicitors will examine your claim and advise you on your best course of action.

Claiming compensation for a faulty product

It is possible that you may have been injured as a result of purchasing the faulty product. Thousands of people in the UK get affected every year by different forms of goods that they purchase. These faulty goods can include:

• Defective toys
• Defective chemicals used in hairdressers
• Defective bottles

If you were injured using a defective product and it was not your fault (through misuse of the product) then you have a right to make a claim.