Consumer powers strengthened as new laws come into effect

Businesses must comply with the rules of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Service, as well as fully refund faulty products within 30 days.

New measures of the Consumer Rights Act have come into force as of Thursday 1 October 2015.

New laws will ensure that consumer complaints are dealt with more effectively and will give consumers added protection if they are not satisfied with a company’s response.

Businesses must now comply with Alternative Dispute Resolution Service rules requiring all UK businesses to direct dissatisfied customers to a recognised Alternative Dispute Resolution provider relevant to their sector which will mediate problems and recommend solutions to the dispute.

While businesses will not be forced to comply with these recommendations, they will be obliged to tell their customers if they do not use the Alternative Dispute Resolution Service, which could have a negative impact on their reputation.

You can find a list of approved Alternative Dispute Resolution providers on the Chartered Trading Standards Institute website >

New laws under the Consumer Rights Act

This law comes as part of a raft of new measures coming into effect on October 1 to do with consumer rights.

As of today anyone who buys faulty goods will be entitled to a full refund for up to 30 days after the purchase, as opposed to for a “reasonable time” under the old law.

This new law also protects those who buy digital content like e-books, online films and music, as well as second-hand goods.

People buying services like a haircut or garage repair will also benefit from stronger rights. Under the new Act, consumers may be eligible for a partial or full refund if work was not carried out with reasonable care.

Read a detailed overview of the changes made to the Consumer Rights Act here >

Read more about the Alternative Dispute Resolution Service on the Chartered Trading Standards Institute website >

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