Have Consumer rights changed?

Helenb42

I went shopping yesterday and noticed on a couple of the receipts when i got home that Cash refunds are not given? I did go into Super Dry where the guy at the till told me before i made the purchase that a cash refund would not be given but i would be able to exchange it, is this correct?

soolin

Helenb42 wrote: »

I went shopping yesterday and noticed on a couple of the receipts when i got home that Cash refunds are not given? I did go into Super Dry where the guy at the till told me before i made the purchase that a cash refund would not be given but i would be able to exchange it, is this correct?

That has always been the case and is actually more that th elaw requires.

If an item is faulty then you are entitled to a full refund in the same method you paid. If you just change your mind you are not actually entitled to any form of refund at all.

MrRedundant

No. You have never been entitled to a cash refund or exchange simply because you change your mind.

Helenb42

Thanks to both of the above replies, that has certainly made me think twice about buying more than needed for choice! Will have to go through the torture of trying garments on in the store changing rooms in future. Does this include online shopping? what if you are buying for someone else?

geordieracer

Helenb42 wrote: »

Thanks to both of the above replies, that has certainly made me think twice about buying more than needed for choice! Will have to go through the torture of trying garments on in the store changing rooms in future. Does this include online shopping? what if you are buying for someone else?

Online shopping you are covered by the DSR which state you can send them back within 7 days of receiving them for what ever reason.. Gifts are a bit of a grey area i think - some shops like M&S will happily exchange them but others may not

shaun_from_Africa

In most cases, online shopping is covered by the distance selling regulations, which if complied with should ensure that you get a full refund.

When buying in a shop, it doesn't matter if the goods are for you or a friend. If you want to return them as a change of mind or they don't fit, then the retailer is free to set their own conditions as to the time allowed and how the refund will be paid (cash, exchange or vouchers)

neilmcl

The T&Cs of a store are in addition, and do not replace, your statuturoy consumer rights. As above, unless stated in the stores terms, you are not entitled to any kind of return unless the item is faulty. Online sales are a different case and are covered by the Distance Selling Regulations (DSRs) where you have an uncondiional right to cancel for 7 days from receiving the items (although certain items may not be covered).

Buying from a store for someone else would generally have the same rules for buying for yourself but at this time of year most stores are more generous and would be willing to offer a refund but make sure you ask for a gift receipt and check with them first.

Helenb42

Thanks Geordieracer, wow this really is an eye opener, will tread very carefully in future.

geordieracer

No problem but its for this very reason why stores have changing rooms so you know if it fits you or you like it on.

neilmcl

geordieracer wrote: »

Online shopping you are covered by the DSR which state you can send them back within 7 days of receiving them for what ever reason..

No, it states you can cancel within 7 (working) days of receiving them, as you know you don't have to return them within this period.

Helenb42

Thanks to all the above