Archive Council News

30 November 2007

Know Your Rights This Christmas

With Christmas fast approaching, Wrexham Council's Trading Standards Officers have put together some timely advice to help avoid problems with Christmas shopping.

Faulty goods

If a purchase turns out to be faulty you must deal with the problem straight away to protect your consumer rights. You may be entitled to a refund, exchange or repair depending on the extent of the fault and how soon after purchase it arises.

Refunds/exchanges

Many retailers offer a refund within 28 days as long as you have a receipt. However, you need to be aware that traders are under no obligation to offer this. Bear this in mind, particularly when buying from small independent outlets. It’s always wise to ask the seller’s policy on returns prior to committing to a purchase.  If you want the recipient to have the option of exchanging the present it’s a good idea to ask for a gift receipt to pass on with the present.

Shopping from home

Shopping on the internet is becoming increasingly popular and may seem the ideal solution to beat the crowds. There are some bargains to be had but shopping from home is not without its problems.

If you buy over the internet, satellite TV, phone or mail order you will usually have some protection under The Distance Selling Regulations.  For most goods you have a seven day cooling off period during which you can return goods even if they are not faulty.  You should bear in mind that if you simply change your mind, ie the goods are not faulty, you will probably be liable for return costs.  You should check the seller’s terms and conditions before ordering.  Also, some goods such as perishable or custom made items may not be returnable.

If you buy from an auction site or from a private seller it really is a case of “buyer beware” as the regulations do not apply to these types of sales.

Credit

If you are buying goods over £100 it’s usually a good idea to pay with your credit card because the credit provider has equal liability for any issues. So if the retailer goes out of business or refuses to resolve your problem you may be able to claim from the credit company. Before using credit though, you should think carefully about the amount of interest you will have to pay.

Loan sharks should be avoided at all costs - their interest rates can be extortionately high and, once you’re in their clutches, it’s often impossible to escape.

Have you considered joining the recently launched Wrexham County Borough Credit Union? For more details telephone 01978 266843, email:info@wrexhamcu.co.uk or log on to www.wrexhamcu.co.uk or visit the Credit Union’s office at 1 North Arcade, Chester Street, Wrexham.

Counterfeit goods

Around the festive season there is usually an increase in mobile traders operating from a suitcase in the street, the local pub or car boot sales. Look out especially for perfumes, CDs, DVDs, clothing and watches. Modern methods can make counterfeiting easy and it’s often hard to tell the difference just on a first glance.  However, the quality is usually disappointing and the items often don’t last. What seems like a bargain can often lead to disappointment on Christmas Day.

Safety

Always buy toys from reputable sources and take note of any age warnings. The warnings are there for a very important reason.  Many toys have detachable small parts which may present a choking hazard to 0-3 year olds.

If you need any further help or advice please contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 or www.consumerdirect.gov.uk (link to external website).