Denbighshire Trading Standards are offering festive advice to protect your consumer rights over Christmas: Like the 12 Days of Christmas here are 12 Pointers to make your Christmas a Happy, Safe and above all enjoyable time…..
12 – Avoid counterfeit goods. Fake items are often of poor quality, potentially unsafe and their sellers are acting illegally. Beware of buying what appear to be bargain branded goods from countries outside the E.U, its unlikely that you will be able to gain any redress.
11– If you receive an unwanted gift from a friend or relative, the seller isn’t obliged to do anything. Some traders may, as a gesture of goodwill or as part of their voluntary return policy, exchange or offer a credit note. Find out what the shop’s policy is before buying.
10– Ensure fairy lights and other novelty electric items are safe, look for CE marked items only and don’t use interior lights outside. Please be aware of the stability and positioning of naked flames, from candles etc.
9 – Always examine your purchases as soon as you can and return any defective item as soon as possible..
8 – Before Christmas, some previously empty shops become occupied by traders for a short time only. Remember that after the festive period, they may no longer be there and you will have nowhere to go if you have a problem.
7 – If your purchase costs more than £100, it may be wiser to pay by ‘plastic’, it may offer you extra protection if the goods become faulty.
6 – ‘THINK’ if the bargain looks too good to be true, it probably is. Although you may not wish to miss a true bargain, don’t be too hasty.
5 – Beware of doorstep sellers. Not all callers are genuine and some may use pressure selling tactics, if you give them an opportunity. Impulse buying is often regretted. If you’re in any doubt, keep them out. Any contract you enter into, in your home or place of work – carries a 7 day cooling off period, make sure you are given this information.
4 –If you’re buying a gift voucher or have a credit note, check any expiry date and any restricted usage for items that you think may be purchased with it.
3 – When buying goods you are under no obligation to buy an extended warranty for it. If you wish to buy one, for whatever reason, check exactly what is covered or more importantly, what is not covered.
2 – Check the USE BY or durability date on perishable foods. Ensure correct storage and follow recommended cooking times.
1 – A till receipt is your proof of purchase. If the goods become faulty or you want to exchange them, the seller may require them.
But remember if you do have problems there is always some one who will provide advice, please call Consumer Direct Wales on 08454 040506
For further information, please contact Consumer Direct Wales on 08454 040506 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights
