Many people know that they have consumer rights in some way. Unfair treatment from a supplier can lead to a sense of injustice. But this feeling can often be a mere general sense of injustice. If you don’t understand your rights, you cannot exercise them effectively. You can’t protect yourself against any unfair practices of a supplier. In part 1 of this series, we discussed 4 consumer rights. You can read that here. In this post we will discuss 4 more rights that you have as a consumer.
Right to fair, just and reasonable terms and conditions
You have a right to protection against contract terms that are unfair, unreasonable or unjust. This means, among other things, that suppliers are not allowed to require you to waive any consumer rights or any others that you might have on terms that are unfair. Suppliers must also draw to your attention (in a conspicuous manner) any risks that they require you to assume responsibility for. You are also allowed to obtain a free copy of the agreement that you enter into.
Right to fair value, good quality and safety
You are entitled to goods that are of good quality and working order, that are not defective or unsafe. Regarding services rendered, they must be of high quality. Services must be performed and completed in a timeous manner. Notice for any unavoidable delays must be given. You also have the right to receive warning on the facts and the nature of risks associated with the product. You can claim damages from the supplier for any injuries you sustain as a result of an unsafe or defective product.
Right to accountability from suppliers
You have a right to protection in lay-bye agreements. A lay-bye agreement involves you, the consumer, paying for goods over a period of time while the supplier holds onto those goods until you have paid the full price. If the supplier fails to deliver any goods, you have a choice in remedy. At your discretion, the supplier must either supply you with equivalent or superior quality replacements or give you a full refund of money paid plus interest.
Right to equality in the consumer market and protection against discriminatory marketing practices
You have the consumer right to free and unlimited access to goods and services. This means, among other things, that you have the right to be treated equally when buying goods and services, regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status or geographic location. You have the right to return unsafe or defective goods within six months and may choose to receive either a refund, a repair or a replacement. Suppliers are not allowed to vary the quality of their goods in a discriminatory manner. You have the right to fair pricing of goods and services.
Need help with consumer rights?
For a more in-depth look at the subject, you can visit here. If you need advice on any matter regarding consumer rights, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected].