My gift to you... how to return pressies
WITHOUT wanting to tempt fate, you’ll undoubtedly receive at least one present tomorrow you want to return – either it’s the wrong size, make or model, it’s faulty or it’s simply not quite what you wanted. So here’s everything you need to make tomorrow a happy Christmas.
It’s a basic requirement that you must have proof of purchase, ranging from a receipt to a bank statement showing the transaction. During the festive period, many present- givers will include a gift receipt. If not, don’t be embarrassed about asking if they have the receipt handy. If you are thinking about returning something, ensure you keep it in tip- top condition. That means not playing with toys, wearing clothes or generally unpacking.
Retailers do not have to accept “non- faulty” returns unless they are in pristine condition ( that is, the same as on the date of purchase) and packaging is intact and resaleable.
PRESSIES YOU CANNOT RETURN:
Presents you cannot return include perishable goods – from food to flowers, if its time in this world is limited, chances are you can’t return it; goods where hygiene is an issue – like underwear or swimwear that has been tried on; bespoke or crafty gifts – if the gift has been personalised, you’re stuck with it. Finally, CDs, DVDs and software cannot be returned with a broken seal.
BOUGHT IN STORE:
Ordinarily, most retailers do not allow you to return goods purchased in store just because you have changed your mind. The law does not provide consumers with this right.
However, during the festive period most retailers temporarily change their returns policies and allow people to exchange unwanted presents for a refund, an alternative or a credit note allowing them to buy something of up to the same value in store at a later date.
BOUGHT ONLINE:
You have greater return rights when you ( or in this case your gift- giver) shops online. This is because the Consumer Contracts Regulations
( as they are known in short), provide that goods purchased online can be returned up to 14 days after delivery and for any reason. This also applies to mail order or over the telephone. But the clock is ticking so don’t dally.
FAULTY PRESENTS:
You can return a faulty gift for a full refund up to 30 days from purchase or delivery. After that, the seller can offer repair, replacement or money back. So move fast for a refund.