Shop Around Before You Buy
This information will help if you have ever:
- Bought a jumper only to find it £5 cheaper in the shop next door;
- Bought the car of your dreams only to discover that you can't afford to insure and run it;
- Bought a CD player only to find a better one the next day.
Can I change my mind?
Once you have agreed to buy goods from a shop you normally have no right to cancel. You can't have a refund just because you have changed your mind, or have found the same item elsewhere at a lower price, so choose carefully and shop around before you buy.
Delivery dates?
Make it clear at the time of ordering if you need the goods by a certain date, and get it in writing. Stress that time is a very important part of the contract. If the agreement is in writing put in a condition making this point.
Shall I sign the form?
Never sign a blank form. Always read the small print, and don't sign anything you can't understand. If you need to think about it, ask to take the form away with you and get advice.
What about presents?
If you are buying goods as a gift, explain this to the shop, and make suitable arrangements (in writing) for any exchange or refund that may be necessary. Otherwise the person receiving the present may be unable to exchange it.
What if I find it cheaper somewhere else?
Shops do not have to charge the lowest price so you have no right to a refund just because you could have bought the goods cheaper, so shop around. However, if the shop makes an offer to match competitors' prices, then it must do so.
Please note:
- The law doesn't protect you from your own mistakes.
- A shopkeeper doesn't have to sell you anything.
- You don't have an automatic right to credit.
- Be extra careful when you are buying goods privately, or from an auction - you don't have the same protection as when buying from a trader.
Further advice and information can be obtained from Staffordshire Trading Standards at:
Consumer Advice - Consumer Direct
Tel: 08454 04 05 06
E mail: consumer.advice@staffordshire.gov.uk
Minicom: 01785 854156
14 Martin Street,
Stafford,
ST16 2LG
All of our information leaflets are available in a range of formats and languages, including Braille and large print. If this would be useful to you or someone you know, please contact us.
Last Modified:
17/03/2006 12:42:07
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