Knock Knock...New Improved Consumer Rights
Some of you may know that, if someone comes to your home uninvited and sells you goods or services, you have certain cancellation rights. This has been the case for some time but the good news is that your rights have been greatly extended by some recent legislation.
From the 1 October, new regulations have come into force meaning that you now have cancellation rights not just when you buy at home but also at your place of work etc and also whether the visit was as a result of an 'invitation' from you or not. This means that even if you rang the company and asked them to call then you will still have the right, in most cases, to cancel any contract you make as a result of that visit.
Do I hear cheering at the back? Quite right too. Consumers will now have a safety net meaning you can avoid the situation where you make a hasty decision that you cannot reverse in the cold light of day when you have had time to think. Many people in the past have been lured into unbreakable contracts by promises of deals that are 'only available today' or have signed up on the spur of the moment only to find the next day that they could have bought significantly cheaper.
So, I hear you cry, what exactly are these rights? Well, if the total payment is more than £35, you have a minimum of 7 calendar days in which to cancel. The trader is obliged to give you clear written notice of these rights either as part of a written contract or in a notice if there is no written contract. If they don't do this, they may be unable to enforce any contract with you and may commit a criminal offence. The seven days start on the day you receive the notice and this must also be made clear. Any deposit you have paid must be returned to you if you cancel.
I want the job done quickly. Does this mean they can't start work or supply the goods until the seven days are up? No. The work can be done sooner or goods supplied at the time, but they must get your written agreement to this and warn you that they will be entitled to payment if you cancel. As long as you both agree, in writing, then the contract can go ahead.
What sort of things are covered by these regulations? As long as the total amount is over £35 then most things are covered. This could include buying household items and cosmetics, patios and driveways, double glazing, extensions and energy supplies.
What if I signed a credit agreement at the same time? Fear not, the regulations say that if you exercise your right to cancel then any associated credit agreement is also cancelled without penalty.
Is this a good thing for businesses too? Yes, companies will now be able to use just one set of paperwork for solicited and unsolicited visits which should reduce costs. It should also create a fairer competitive market and help enhance the reputation of door-to-door sales people.
As always, if you need more advice, please call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06. If you are a business and want further advice on these or any other regulations, please call Staffordshire County Council Trading Standards Business Advice Line on 0845 330 3313.
Would you like to comment on what you have read? You can - simply click on the link below and share your thoughts now!
Burton Local News - 'Your' voice in the Community... let it be heard.