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Consumer protection law

What is the consumer protection law?

Consumer protection law exists to ensure that businesses cannot take advantage of customers by failing to deliver that which was promised.

The Sale of Goods Act 1979 is probably the most prominent consumer protection law, and the one which has the most relevance to everyday transactions. Essentially, this consumer protection law states that the responsibility lies with the retailer to sell goods of a "satisfactory" quality, and that if they fail in this responsibility, they must remedy the situation.

So, if you purchase faulty goods from a retailer, they are obliged by the law to refund your money, or repair or replace the item. If the goods are not returned to them within a reasonable amount of time, they do not have to offer a refund, but repairs and replacements are still legally required. Warranties or guarantees from the manufacturer do not supersede these rights; the retailer is responsible regardless of the situation.

To learn more about consumer protection law and how to take advantage of your rights, read our free Consumer Rights guide.

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