2008
Choosing a gift for Father's Day gift can be hard, but before you run out to buy dad's favourite aftershave, the latest gadget or a new power tool, its worth brushing up on your consumer rights advises Consumer Direct Scotland.
10th June 2008
Consumer Direct Scotland Centre Manager, Gordon Macdonald said:
'Many people put a lot of thought and effort into Fathers Day. Gifts not arriving on time, and goods and services not meeting expectations can be quite upsetting for those involved. Knowing your rights can help you avoid problems in the first place and arm you with the tools to deal with traders if there's a problem.'
Consumer Direct Scotland has put together the following tips for good sons and daughters:
- Look out for counterfeit goods such as cut price aftershave, alcohol, DVDs, CDs or videos. Counterfeits are illegal and can turn out to be poor quality and potentially dangerous.
- Keep your receipt as you may need to provide proof of purchase if the goods turn out to be faulty.
- Ask about the returns policies but be aware that shops are not obliged to refund or exchange items simply because they're not wanted.
- Don't leave internet or mail order purchases to the last minute as they often take several days to arrive. Under the Distance Selling Regulations a trader has 30 days to fulfil an order unless you agree a specific delivery date. In either case, if the goods don't arrive on time you can cancel your order and claim a refund.
- When shopping online, make sure that your payment is protected - look for the closed padlock symbol when using the internet.
- When purchasing items costing over £100.00, consider using a credit card as you may get extra protection from your credit card company should problems arise.
- If you're buying gift vouchers be aware that there is usually an expiry date and that retailers may not give change should the goods not equal the value of the voucher. Always check the terms and conditions for details.
Pre-shopping tips and advice on resolving issues with shops and traders is available by calling Consumer Direct Scotland on 08454 04 05 06 or visiting the website at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
-End-
Notes to editors:
1. Consumer Direct is a telephone and online consumer advice service managed by the Office of Fair Trading and delivered in partnership with Local Authority Trading Standards Services. It provides clear, practical, impartial advice to help people resolve problems and disagreements with suppliers of goods or services.
2.The information and advice helpline is available on 08454 04 05 06 from 0800-1830 Monday to Friday, and 0900-1300 Saturday, excluding bank holidays and public holidays.
3. Minicom users only should call 08451 28 13 84.
4. Calls cost a maximum of 4 pence per minute from a BT landline. Calls from mobiles or other networks may vary. Your service provider may charge a minimum cost per call. The advice and information given is free.
Media enquiries: Jean Mackenzie 01851 822306
