Take Some Of The Strain Out Of
Christmas |
24 Nov 2006 |
Christmas can be really stressful, shopping around
for presents and hoping that they'll prove popular
- and also that you'll be able to sort things out afterwards
if there are problems.
South Tyneside Council's Trading Standards section
has some handy tips to make stocking up on those festive
goodies that little bit easier, especially if things
go wrong!
Firstly, if you know what you're after, shop around.
Many stores offer a price match policy, or try the
internet which can offer great savings. Also try to
negotiate as some retailers may throw in extras such
as cables or batteries for electrical goods.
Take note of extended warranties and guarantees. You
will generally get a one-year manufacturer's guarantee
with most goods but some retailers offer free extended
warranties, which are worth looking out for.
Extended warranties that you pay for can be very expensive
and may offer no more rights than you can get for free.
Always look at terms and conditions carefully to see
what you are actually getting for your money. Any guarantee
or warranty is in addition to your statutory rights.
Some warranties and guarantees offered by retailers
are insurance backed so if the retailer ceases trading,
in most cases you will have a claim against a third
party.
You may get extra protection if you fund you purchase
on a credit card or through a finance agreement. However,
be careful of unnecessary debt, as credit cards are
an expensive method of borrowing.
Finance agreements can also be expensive so check
out the total you will have to pay back. If you are
using buy now, pay later or other deferred finance,
you may be subject to a large interest payment if you
go over the time.
And remember - cheap is not always a bargain. Always
buy from a reputable source so you can be sure that
you're not getting counterfeit, fake or stolen goods.
Most importantly, know your rights. When buying Christmas
presents it's far better to test them out when you
get them. Your legal rights diminish over time and
you may have more difficulty getting things put right
if you wait until after Christmas Day.
Councillor Michael Clare, Lead Member for Environment,
Housing and Transport, said: "It is important,
especially at this time of year, to know what your
legal rights are should something go wrong.
"It is impossible to guarantee a problem-free
Christmas, but following these tips from our Trading
Standards team, and reporting any problems as soon
as you can, should help to take some of the stress
out of the festive period."
If you have a problem, or want to check out what your
rights are, contact Trading Standards on 0191 424 7896
or 0191 424 4402. Information is also available at
www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/southtyneside.
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