Statutory Warranty: Who Qualifies and What You Get

This scheme provides legal protection for consumers when a product they have purchased is faulty or does not work as expected. It is a mandatory legal right designed to ensure that goods sold to the public meet basic quality standards.

👤Who it's for

This protection is available to all buyers. Whether you are purchasing small household items or larger consumer goods, anyone who buys new goods is covered under these consumer rights.

🎁What you get

You receive a warranty that lasts for two years on any new goods you purchase. This period ensures that if a product fails due to a defect that was present at the time of sale, you have a legal basis to seek a resolution.

💰What it costs you

There is no direct monetary cost to access this legal protection. However, it requires your time and active participation. To maintain your rights, you must report any defects to the seller immediately. Delaying your report could impact your ability to claim under the warranty, so acting quickly is essential.

⚠️The catch to know

The most important thing to understand is how the burden of proof changes over time. While you are protected for the full two-year period, the rules regarding evidence change after the first six months. During the initial six months, the law is generally more protective of the buyer. However, once that six-month window has passed, the burden of proof shifts to you. This means if a problem arises later in the warranty period, you may be required to provide evidence proving that the defect was a pre-existing issue and not caused by wear and tear or misuse.

📝How to apply

1. Carefully inspect all new goods immediately after purchase to check for any obvious faults.
2. Identify the specific defect or issue that makes the product unfit for its intended use.
3. Contact the seller directly to report the defect as soon as you notice it.
4. Keep all receipts and documentation to support your claim and prove the date of purchase.