£200 deposit refused to refund.

24_hour_sparks

hi this is a post on behalf of my sister.

to cut a long story short she wanted to buy a car for 5k but could only afford if accepted for finance. The company she was buying took a £200 deposit before finding out if the finance was approved. The finance was refused and now they wont give the deposit back. Is there anything she can do? and what would you do ?
thanks
andy in sunny brighton

Burlesque_Babe

How did they word the payment of £200? Did they call it an administration fee? I'm asking because Welcome charge £49 (I think) as an 'administration fee' but it doesn't guarantee the person they will be approved and it is non-refundable.

24_hour_sparks

It was £200 deposit to take the car off of sale to anyone else. ie to hold the car. They told the salesman that they would only be able to buy the car if the finance was accepted.

jonesMUFCforever

Ask to speak to the owner of the business or head manager.
If they do not agree to refund go straight to Trading standards and CAB.