Press releases
31 May 2006
World Cup Fever
Don't Kick yourself with World Cup TV fever.
For those who can not make it to the World Cup, many will enjoy watching it on the very latest television from the comfort of our own home. It is anticipated that sales in audio visuals will increase leading up to the football fever, so Consumer Direct South West is advising all fans to brush up on their consumer rights, before making that big purchase.
Consumer Direct research showed that audio visuals were the 5th most complained about goods in 2005.
Somerset resident Susan Barrett contacted Consumer Direct South West to find out what her consumer rights were after her mother’s TV became faulty.
Mrs Barrett said: 'I called Consumer Direct on behalf on my mother who bought her TV in February 2006. It became faulty after the first month and the trader offered my mother a repair, but she wanted a replacement.
'This was when I contacted Consumer Direct South West to check what my consumer rights were.
'Following the excellent and clear advice that I received, my mother called the trader and they offered her a replacement.
'My mother was absolutely 'over the moon' and very pleased with the service. I just want to encourage other people to make use of this fantastic service that Consumer Direct South West provides'.
So before you go out and purchase your dream television, follow Consumer Direct South West’s tips:
Before purchasing:
- Always check out what is on the market before buying.
- Research the product well before handing over your hard earned cash.
- What is the after care service being offered?
TV purchases are often made via mail order/internet. Check out these tips:
- You may be able to cancel your order at any time up to seven days after receipt of the goods.
- If you have already paid for the goods, the seller must refund your money within 30 days of you cancelling the agreement.
Purchases are often made on credit. Check out these tips:
- Can you commit to making regular payments for a fixed period?
- Shop around. There are many financial products available.
- If you enter an agreement, check terms and conditions carefully.
- If the price is more than £100, the credit company may be equally responsible for faulty goods.
And if things go wrong? Follow Consumer Direct's advice:
- Stop using it. Check there really is a fault - read the instructions!
- Locate your proof of purchase. Your rights still apply if you lose your receipt, although alternative proof of purchase may be required such as a credit card bill or bank statement.
- If you have only used it a few times, you may be entitled to a refund for a fault, alternatively you may ask for a replacement.
- If the goods can not be replaced or repaired you are entitled to a refund.
For further advice call Consumer Direct South West on 08454 040506, or visit the Consumer Direct Website.
