Know Your Rights – when buying tech and gadgets
Having problems with your latest purchase, we clarify your consumer rights
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE?
For product defects, the manufacturer has responsibility only to the retailer and you cannot demand that the manufacturer replaces the product. However, many products come with a free manufacturer’s guarantee (or warranty – they are used interchangeably). It may be easier to claim under the guarantee especially if a fault arises after the first six months.
If you buy using a credit card (as opposed to a debit or charge card) you have the same rights against the card issuer as you do against the retailer for items between £100 and £30,000. You can contact either of them. Some retailers offer credit facilities. These agreements are governed by different regulations and there isn’t room here to explain them in detail. However, if you enter into such an agreement, your rights a buyer may be against the credit company and not the retailer. In the event of a fault it would be advisable to keep the retailer advised of your contact with the credit company.
GO WITH THE FLOW
Follow our flow diagram to work out the best way to approach your problem. For more specific issues, have a browse through the next few pages of frequently asked questions.
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