Do online shops have to pay the cost of returning faulty items?

pinkteapot

Just a general query, per the title. I just ordered some furniture online. When I checked out, I had the option to pay £3.95 for "returns paid". If I wanted to return the goods for any reason, it would then be 'free'. If I didn't take that option, collection is charged at £40 (or I can arrange my own courier).

I can understand this if I just change my mind. However, if the furniture arrives and is actually faulty, would I have to pay the £40? It made me wonder whether online shops are obliged to cover the return costs of faulty merchandise?

As I said, just something I was wondering about. Got no reason to expect a faulty product.

shaun_from_Africa

If something is faulty or not as described when delivered, the retailer is responsible for all costs incurred in getting the goods back.

The consumer is not even required to return them, simply inform the retailer of the problem and make the goods available for them to collect.