Electrical purchase - 9 months old - refund dispute

sawsaw382

Hi there,
New to the forum, advice requested.
I purchased a microwave from 'The Range' last October, it broke a month ago, we are unclear what is wrong with it other than it will not power on in any way.
We have been in touch with them to ask for a replacement, they have told us that because the item is over 6 months old, we need an independant 3rd party who is VAT registered to assess and prove that the item had a manufacturing fault all this time.
Are they correct, and if so, who is one meant to go to do make that sort of assessment of a microwave?
Suggestions welcome.
Thanks
Samuel

user1977

It's correct (other than there's no need for them to be VAT registered). Not sure who is best to go to, but I expect you could start with whoever offers repairs of electrical appliances.

Robbo66

why not just get it repaired under warranty

sawsaw382

a warranty repair is not an option unless i can prove that it was a fault that has always been there

JJ_Egan

Cost  of report circa £60  , you get back if a manufacturing fault .

Try a local fixer of microwaves .

visidigi

sawsaw382 said:

a warranty repair is not an option unless i can prove that it was a fault that has always been there

What warranty did the microwave come with when bought? If its got a 12 month warranty you don't need the report to get it repaired.

I am assuming you have replaced the fuse etc already?

Ectophile

sawsaw382 said:

a warranty repair is not an option unless i can prove that it was a fault that has always been there

Warranties usually come from the manufacturer, and usually don't require any sort of report.  Unless you broke it, they will repair it.

That's totally separate from any consumer rights you have against the retailer.  You can pick whichever suits you.