Goods bought before the Consumer Rights Act 2022 

What are your rights with goods bought before the Consumer Rights Act 2022?

The Consumer Rights Act came into force on 28 November 2022. It helps strengthen consumer rights across Ireland and the EU, and provides more protection for consumers, particularly for online purchases. 

You still have consumer rights if you made a purchase before the Consumer Rights Act. If you bought goods in Ireland before 28 November 2022, your rights are set out under the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980. The item you buy must be:

• Of merchantable quality – it should be of a reasonable and acceptable standard, considering durability and price
• Fit for the purpose intended – it must be capable of being used for its intended purpose
• As described – it must match the description given verbally or in advertising You have the same rights whether you bought the item from a business at full price, in a sale or second-hand.

What should you do if there is a problem with goods you bought before 28 November 2022?

If you have a problem with goods, you and the business should try to agree on a solution. The law does not specify exactly which remedy you are entitled to, so you may need to negotiate. Possible solutions include:

• Repair:  You are entitled to have the item repaired or replaced free of charge, provided you did not cause the damage. If the same fault occurs again, you should be entitled to a replacement or refund.
• Replacement: If repair is impossible or inconvenient, the business may offer a replacement. The replacement should be of similar quality and price. You should not have to pay extra, and if the replacement costs less, you should be refunded the difference in price.
• Full refund:  If the item is faulty and does not work as expected, you are entitled to a refund if the business cannot repair or replace the item within a reasonable timeframe.
• Price reduction:  If the item is repaired or replaced but still does not work as it should, you can ask for a reduction in price if you are willing to accept the fault. For example, if a bicycle with 21 gears is repaired and now only has 18 working gears, you may request a price reduction.

What evidence do you need when returning goods or making a complaint?

When returning goods or making a complaint, you should:

• Bring the product back to the seller with original packaging if possible
• Provide proof of purchase, such as a receipt, bank statement, or invoice

How do you make a complaint if a business refuses to help?

If you have an issue with a product, first contact the business and ask them to resolve it. If your issue remains unresolved, you can make a formal complaint. The CCPC provides guidance on how to complain, including sending a written complaint and outlining the fault and your preferred resolution. For more information, see Resolve an issue.