Making a contract

When you buy goods from a retailer you are making an agreement known as a contract. This means that in return for your money, you can expect that the goods will be and do all the sellers claim in their descriptions. The contract is with the retailer, not the manufacturer, and therefore it is the retailer who has to handle complaints and deal with them.

Doing your bit

You should not always rely on the law and advice agencies to sort out your problems. You should take some responsibility for the goods you consume.

You should:

• do some research to find out what products are regarded as reliable;
• check that the shops you are using are reputable;
• find out what their policy is on returns and after-sales service;
• read any agreements you sign, particularly financial ones;
• keep the receipt.