Frequently Asked Questions
Question
What rights do I have as a consumer when it comes to faulty goods?
Answer
You have the right to return the goods although the retailer could reserve the right to repair if that is possible in the first instance. The goods must be of satisfactory quality and free from defects, still fitting the description used in the advertisement and fit for its original purpose. Your right will
be against the person who sold you the goods; the manufacturer is under no contractual obligation to be involved.
Question
What rights do I have against poor workmanship from a builder?
Answer
“Cowboy” builders are a consumers nightmare especially with regard to work carried out in your home. The first step is to find a reputable builder, agree a price for the work and what specifically needs to be done, it is a good idea to get all of this in writing as well.
If the work turns out to be substandard the law provides protection in that the work carried out has to be done with “reasonable care and skill”. If you feel it’s not then it is a breach of contract, and you have 2 options.
1. You can give the builder a reasonable opportunity to put the work right. (Subject to you having faith in his ability).
2. You can appoint a new builder to remedy the work, and then pursue a claim for damages against the first builder in the county courts.
Question
I was injured in a road accident that wasn’t my fault; can I claim compensation for the injuries I sustained?
Answer
You have a right to claim compensation for a personal injury claim. The first step is to check whether you have legal protection insurance on your motor insurance policy. If you do you should contact your legal protection insurance provider who will talk you through the claims process. This policy will cover your legal costs.
If you don’t have legal protection insurance cover you should contact a personal injury solicitor who may be able to pursue your claim through a conditional fee agreement.
Question
I have worked for my employers for over a year until I was dismissed recently without a satisfactory explanation, where do
I stand?
Answer
You have the right to be treated fairly and reasonably, the employer must follow certain basic procedures. If those procedures are not followed you could make a claim for unfair dismissal for which you could claim compensation or seek to be reemployed. You should contact your legal protection insurance provider as soon as possible.
Question
I have received a parking fine I would like to contest, what can I do?
Answer
You must object to the council in writing within 14 days, the council will then send you a “Notice to Owner” giving you an additional 28 days to return your case in writing. Following this,
if you are not happy with the council’s decision, you can appeal within 28 days to the independent adjudicator, contact details for which would have been included with the Notice of Owner.