Five questions about... rights in the sales

 

Simon Read
Friday 28 December 2012 11:25 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

What rights? It's buyer beware if you snap up a bargain, isn't it?

Far from it. Just because a shop or online retailer is flogging off something at a fraction of a previous price, that doesn't mean it can sell you rubbish.

So do my normal consumer rights apply?

Yep. When you buy sales items you have exactly the same statutory rights as you do when you buy stuff at full price. That means anything sold to you must be fit for purpose or as described. However, that means if an item is described as faulty when sold, you can't take it back later because it's broken.

What about if I change my mind?

That's down to individual retailers. While most firms will allow you to exchange things normally, they may have a different policy on sale items. You need to check with the store you're spending at.

What about if I can't find the receipt?

That can happen. But as long as you are able to show some other proof of purchase, such as a credit card bill or bank statement, the retailer still has to honour your rights.

Anything else I should know?

Check prices online before you buy. Items may still be cheaper elsewhere even if a retailer claims it has a half-price sale or similar huge discounts.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in