Trading Standards Institute issues guide on new Consumer Rights Act

The Trading Standards Institute has issued guidance to businesses on how to avoid falling foul of the new Consumer Rights Act.

This has replaced eight previous acts, including the Sale of Goods Act 1979 and the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982.

Under the new law, digital content is treated as a separate product category with rights to repair or replace faulty ‘intangible’ content.

It also gives consumers a clearer way to understand their rights if they feel goods or services failed to perform as promised.

The new act additionally clarifies when terms and conditions can be considered unfair, and the periods for repair, replacement and refunds for good and services and simplifies the process by which small businesses can take legal action against larger ones over competition laws.

Trading Standards Institute chief executive Leon Livermore said: “Trading standards officers are committed to working with businesses to help them understand complicated legislation that impacts day-to-day operations.”

The Institute’s Business Companion online tool is designed to help businesses grasp the new act and point them to all relevant legislation.

The TSI said businesses have until 1 October 2015 to implement and educate staff about the changes.