Do I have to accept a repair or credit note?

FionaMcLean

If anyone could advise me, I'd really appreciate it!

I bought a clutch handbag with a clip-on shoulder chain for a wedding. Before I even arrived, one of the catches had snapped, so I managed to tie it back with thread, but the other side instantly snapped off too. Later (using it as a clutch bag, though I specifically bought it because it had shoulder strap), the fabric of the bag started to pull away from the metal clasp even though the bag wasn't over full - and this was its first use!

The shop offered me a new chain - I don't like complaining so I got flustered and forgot to mention to bag pulling away from the clasp - and when I wouldn't accept that, a credit note. I went back and spoke to a deputy manager who said I was lying and someone had obviously grabbed the bag and wouldn't accept it was faulty.

They're saying as it's a small business they can offer a repair (ie new chain) or a credit note, but I just want my money back!

Sorry for the long explanation, but can anyone help, please?

unholyangel

How long ago did you buy it, how did you pay, do you have proof of purchase and how long after buying it did you try to return it?

FionaMcLean

I bought it on the 6th June for £24.99, used it at the wedding on Sat 26th of June and first tried to take it back on Mon 28th June with the receipt.

somethingcorporate

Tricky timing that, but given the short (ish) time scales I would try going for outright rejection and demand a full refund.

The Sale of Goods Act gives you a "reasonable time" with which to "accept" the goods. I'd say 3 weeks would be more than enough for a handbag but a retailer probably wouldn't know this.

If not all you are entitled to is repair / replacement / refund for all intents and purposes at the whim of the retailer (so a credit note may be the best you could do).

HTH.

unholyangel

Just remember not to let him fob you off. Your rights as a consumer dont change just because its a small business. You are still entitled to your statutory rights (although some big chains may offer additional rights).

Also, if it is within 6 months of purchase, it is assumed the fault is inherent and it is up to the retailer to prove otherwise (ie that you have misused the bag) so the store shouldnt even be trying to use that as an excuse.

FionaMcLean

Many thanks for the replies. I went back to the shop again better informed thanks to your comments and stood my ground. They very grudgingly gave me my money back, so I'm happy, though still shocked at how I was treated by the staff.

somethingcorporate

FionaMcLean wrote: »

Many thanks for the replies. I went back to the shop again better informed thanks to your comments and stood my ground. They very grudgingly gave me my money back, so I'm happy, though still shocked at how I was treated by the staff.

Well done!

At least they grudgingly agreed with you rather than being nice and telling you no!!

:j