Christmas Shopping – Your Consumer Rights Explained

It’s that time of year again when we’re all scrolling online, purchasing some last-minute Christmas presents. Understanding your rights as a consumer is important in case something goes wrong with one of those presents!

The goods that you purchase must meet the following standards:

Depending on how long you have had possession of the goods, you may be entitled to a refund. You have a legal right to a refund from a retailer, as long as you apply for one within 30 days. The refund period can sometimes be longer than 30 days depending on where you purchased the goods from. If the standard 30 day refund period has passed, you may be able to receive a refund. However, you must first provide the retailer with the opportunity to either repair or replace the goods. Furthermore, if you notice the goods are faulty 6 months after the date of purchase, then the onus is on you to show that the goods were faulty when you came into possession of them. Otherwise, the retailer is not obliged to provide a refund.

With regards to delivery rights, it is the retailer who is responsible for the goods until they are in your physical possession, in the possession of someone appointed by you to accept them or be delivered to your nominated safe place. Therefore, if your goods have been stolen then your rights will depend on whether you gave the retailer or courier permission to leave your goods where they did as it may be interpreted that they have been delivered to you.

Unless you are told by the retailer otherwise, goods usually have to be delivered no more than 30 days from the date of purchase. If the goods do not arrive after 30 days or on the date that is agreed, then you are entitled to a full refund or to cancel the order.

If what you have purchased doesn’t satisfy any of the criteria explained above, please contact our New Business Team on 0141 375 1222 or via the to arrange an initial consultation with our specialist dispute resolution solicitors.