With Happy returns to you at Christmas

NOT every Christmas gift is just what you always wanted but don’t fret.

Wrong size? Wrong colour? Not working properly?

If you are planning on returning it for an exchange or a refund, here’s what you need to know.

CONDITION

Retailers can legitimately refuse to provide an exchange or refund if the item or its packaging is damaged in any way.

This catches many people out with Christmas presents as often they will have ripped open the packaging in excitement or even thrown it away before eventually deciding that they want to return the gift to the retailer.

The golden rule is it should be in a condition which would allow the retailer to put it straight back up for sale. This does not apply if the goods are faulty.

PROOF OF PURCHASE

Retailers will always want to see proof of purchase so they can be sure they sold the item.

During the Christmas period many people ask for a gift receipt for that reason.

If you don’t have one you will need to ask the giver of the present to either return it for you or give you the receipt.

WHERE AND WHEN THE GIFT WAS PURCHASED

If it was bought online within the last 14 days the Consumer Contract

Regulations provide you with the right to return it no questions asked. If you are outside of this period, or if the gift was purchased in store, you will need to find out what the retailer’s Christmas returns policy says.

Most will allow up to 30 days to return/exchange unwanted Christmas gifts.

FAULTY GOODS

When goods are faulty you are always entitled to return them for a refund, repair or exchange. The only stipulation is you will have to produce proof of purchase.

GIFTS YOU CANNOT RETURN

Retailers have no obligation to accept returns of the following goods, unless they are faulty:

DVDS, music and computer software, if the seal or packaging has been broken.

Earrings, make-up and toiletries. These items can’t be returned for hygiene reasons and this may be extended to clothing such as underwear and swimwear.

Perishable items such as food and flowers.

Bespoke or personalised items:. If you have made-to-measure or monogrammed items it’s unlikely you will be able to send them back.

More advice from Dean at www.theconsumerlawyer.blog