Returning shoddy goods

[Tillyella]

I bought a pair of suede boots at the end of January but have not worn them overmuch as they obviously were not meant for the sort of weather we have been having recently. When I was pulling them off the sole came away from the upper. I returned them to the shop but was told that it was not the shop's policy to refund money and was given a credit note. There was nothing else I liked in the shop and they had sold all the boots like mine so could not replace them. I was under the impression that when you returned shoddy goods you were entitled to a refund. Has anyone had a similar experience and what did they do. I would appreciate your advice. Thanks in advance.

[mike11111]

The shop is trying it on to keep your money. If the goods are not fit for purpose then by the Sale of Goods Act 1979 you are entitled to a full refund. If you had misused the goods, then that's a different story, but there is nothing in what you have written to suggest that that is the case. I suggest you research the Sale of Goods Act and write to the Head Office, quoting chapter and verse. I've known a number of instances where the company has soon backed down.

[dragongiraffe]

Sale of Goods Act 1979 dictates that any goods purchased must be of "Merchantable quality and fit for the purpose intended".

Failure to adhere to this entitles the customer to a refund, repair or replacement - or compensation provided such claim/approach to the retailer is made within a "reasonable time".

"Reasonable time" is generally accepted as 20 working days ie; a month.

Local Trading Standards offices produce some very useful leaflets for the consumer - alternatively, go to your LA's website and from there to "Trading Standards".

Don't let yourself be fobbed off, either. It is not even necessary for the goods to be faulty which is why a "cooling off period" exists in law to all ow you to change your mind about your purchase with affecting your consumer rights or statutory rights.

You don't even have to produce a receipt to support your demands. (Putting goods on the 'plastic' is the best way of providing proof of purchase + credit company is obliged to issue immediate refund in event of dispute.

[joko]

i understood the cooling off period only applies to goods bought online or from a catalogue...am i wrong...?

they do not have to refund you just ebcause you change your mind, so the goods do have to be faulty...

[Gmcd01]

You're correct Joko, and there is a statutory cooling off period for services contracted when the contract is signed as a result of the seller approaching the buyer. Distance Selling Regulations cover internet sales.
Also, the earlier poster is incorrect in suggesting that a credit card should be used for all purchases. Credit cards only cover refunds in certain circumstances on purchases over £100. I don't quite see how using a credit card provides proof of purchase either; a statement would provide that a transaction occured in the store, but not what the product bought was. That's a different argument though.