Home/Discover/Consumer rights & fairness
Consumer rights & fairness

Faulty goods: your refund rights, plainly explained

Bought something faulty? Your right to reject, repair or replace it, explained plainly.

The short version

If something is faulty, not as described, or not fit for purpose, you have rights against the retailer who sold it to you, not the manufacturer.

What you can ask for

How to claim

Go back to the retailer, explain the fault clearly, and say what you want. Keep your proof of purchase and any messages.

If they refuse

Put it in writing, reference your statutory rights, and escalate to an ombudsman or dispute scheme if needed.

How AI has your back here

Standing up to a bigger organisation is daunting, and most people give up, which is exactly what the other side counts on.

We build AI that helps people understand their rights and make their case clearly, so they can stand their ground. Not legal advice, a real hand.

See what we build for people →

This guide is general information, not legal advice, and does not replace a qualified adviser. Your rights can depend on your exact situation and where you live, so check the current position before acting.

Common questions

Who is responsible for faulty goods, the shop or the maker?

The retailer who sold it to you, not the manufacturer. Your statutory rights are against the seller.

Can I get a full refund for faulty goods?

If you reject faulty goods within the first 30 days, you are generally entitled to a full refund. After that you may be offered a repair or replacement first.

What if the repair does not work?

If a repair or replacement fails to fix the fault, you can usually claim a further remedy, including a refund. Keep evidence of each attempt.

What proof do I need to claim?

Proof of purchase and any messages about the fault. A bank or card statement can work if you have lost the receipt.

You should not have to do this alone.

Creative Sauce AI is our sister studio and the AI experts behind these guides. They build the tools that help people and businesses through the moments that are hard.

See how Creative Sauce AI helps