Consumer Rights Law used to be ambiguous, with many business owners and consumers unsure of where they stood. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 came into force on 1 October 2015. The Act deals with business to consumer transactions and updates and replaces a number of pieces of legislation, including the Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977, the Sale of Goods Act 1979, the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 and the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations 1999.
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The law is now clearer and easier to understand, meaning that consumers can buy, and businesses can sell, with confidence. The Act also covers digital content for the first time.
New consumer protection measures in the Act include:
- Longer refund rights – there is a new tiered system under which anyone who buys faulty goods will be entitled to a full refund for up to 30 days after purchase and any refunds given have to be made within 14 days. After the 30 day period, consumers still have the right to repair or replacement;
- Rights to repair or replacement of faulty digital content, which can include films, games and music downloads;
- Being able to challenge unfair terms and conditions; and
- What should happen if a service is not provided with reasonable care and skill as agreed. Essentially, the business that provided the service must bring it into line with what was agreed with the consumer.
Although the Act sets clear guidelines for consumer protection, many business owners may not be aware of the changes. Keep your business up-to-date with the changes in the law by having your terms and conditions, or other business contracts, reviewed.
For more information on consumer rights law, or commercial law in general, please do not hesitate to contact EHL’s business law department on 0116 266 5394.
The information provided in all of our blogs reflects only a narrative of some elements to consider on the topic. The blogs do not contain considered legal advice and should not be relied upon as advice. Please see our website terms and conditions for full details of our disclaimer. If you are interested in obtaining advice, please contact one of our solicitors who will be happy and able to advise you on your own particular circumstances.
