Major changes to Consumer Rights Act

Major changes in consumer law that will affect both businesses and customers come into force next month.

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 replaces eight existing laws including the Sale of Goods Act 1979 and the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 and comes in to force on Thursday 1 October.

One of the major changes is to impose a specific time limit on when consumers can obtain a refund for faulty goods.  If goods are sold that do not meet legal requirements there is a short period of 30 days during which the consumer is entitled to reject them.  After this time they will need to consider either a repair or replacement.

For the first time legislation now covers digital content and outlines consumers rights if something goes wrong with software you have downloaded.

The act also:

• outlines a clearer route for consumers interested in understanding their rights and the remedies they have if they feel goods/services fail to do what was promised
• clarifies when terms and conditions can be considered unfair
• clarifies the periods for repair, replacement and refunds related to both good and services
• simplifies the process by which small businesses can take legal action against bigger companies that are breaking competition laws

Cllr Philippa Davey, Cabinet Member for Safer, Stronger Communities said “The new Consumer Rights Act is so important in setting out clear and updated consumer rights for goods, services and, for the first time, digital content.  Businesses need to make sure that they are familiar with the new requirements and can find out a lot of information on the Business Companion website.  Our Trading Standards Team are keen to help them understand the new law”

Members of Plymouth Trading Standards Buy with Confidence Scheme are in the process of receiving information and training before the act comes into force.

Other businesses can find more information at  the Business Companion website www.businesscompanion.info/en/news-and-updates/consumer-rights-act

Businesses can also contact Plymouth Trading Standards with specific queries on 01752 304147 or trading.standards@plymouth.gov.uk

Advice about all consumer matters can be obtained from the Citizen’s Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506