Services bought before the Consumers Right Act 2022
If you purchased a service in Ireland on or before 28 November 2022, your consumer rights are protected under previous Irish legislation. This guide explains what you should expect from any service, the information businesses must provide before you buy, and the steps to take if you encounter a problem. For services bought or renewed after 29 November 2022, refer to our updated guidance on contracts and services.
What are your rights if you bought or used a service before the Consumer Rights Act 2022?
Consumers in Ireland who bought services before 28 November 2022 are protected by earlier consumer legislation. You have the right to expect services to be delivered with care, skill, and appropriate materials. Businesses must provide clear information, including costs and contract terms, before you commit.
If you experience problems, you should first contact the provider and, if unresolved, follow the CCPC complaints process. For services bought after this date, read about your rights when buying services under the Consumer Rights Act 2022.
What should you expect from a service you have bought?
- The service must be provided with proper care and attention.
- The business must have the necessary skills to perform the service.
- Any materials used must be sound and fit for their intended purpose.
- Any goods supplied as part of the service should be of acceptable quality.
What information must a business give you before you buy a service?
There should be no hidden fees and charges when you go to sign up to a service. Where a business offers additional extras (e.g. car hire, accommodation services) during the booking process, you must actively opt in by ticking the box to select that item, if you want it included. Businesses must show clearly the total cost of the service, including any additional taxes or fees, before the order is placed.
The business must also give you the following information before you buy a service:
- The name and address of the supplier
- The main characteristics of the service
- The total cost, including any additional taxes or fees
- How payment will be made
- How the service will be performed
- Whether you have a right to cancel and how to do so
- The minimum duration of the contract
- The period during which you can enter into the contract on these terms
- The cost of communication if above the basic rate • Any guarantees or after-sales services available
- Conditions for terminating the contract if it is unlimited or longer than one year
This information should be provided in a document you can keep. The business must be able to prove it provided this information.
What should you do if you have a problem with a service?
Contact the service provider directly and explain the issue.
If the problem is not resolved, you can make a formal complaint to the business. See our page on how to complain for guidance.
