Consumer Protection Act article 18: The agreement between the supplier and consumer Part 7.  

In our previous article, we discussed the agreement between the supplier and consumer in regards to changes, deferrals, waivers and cooling off.

In this article, we shall continue to discuss the agreement between the supplier and consumer in relation to the right to return goods.

Returning goods:

A consumer is entitled to inspect goods before the delivery date. However should the consumer not have had an opportunity to inspect the goods and the same was not the type and quality agreed upon the consumer may return the goods for a full refund.

The consumer will have to show that the goods delivered did not correspond in material aspects to the description provided by the supplier.

Special order goods, that being goods manufactured specifically by the supplier for a specific consumer, can only be returned if they do not comply with the material specifications of the order.

If a mixture of goods is delivered the consumer can refuse delivery of all or part of the goods should a portion of the goods not comply with the agreed description.

If a supplier over-delivers goods the consumer may reject the entire order or accept the quantity agreed and return the rest.  

Should a consumer order items for a particular purpose, and that particular purpose was brought to the attention of the supplier, the consumer may return the goods within 10 days should the items not be suitable for the purpose it was intended.

Should a supplier have agreed to deliver any goods or services at a specific place on a specified time and date and the supplier amends the same the consumer may accept the new arrangements, demand that the original agreement is complied with or terminate the agreement.

However please note that the consumer may not return any goods prohibited by law for health, safety or other set reasons. Furthermore, should the goods have been tampered with they cannot be returned.  

Should goods be returned due to the termination of a direct marketing agreement then the same is returned at the consumer's expense. In all other instances, the supplier remains liable and the goods must be returned within 10 days.

Upon the return of goods, the supplier must refund the purchase price less any permissible charges that the Act allows.  

***Kindly note that the contents of this article are intended for information purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Consult your attorney.

In our next article, we will continue to discuss the agreement between the supplier and consumer but in relation to the consumer’s right to cancel an advanced reservation, booking or order.