Consumer Rights Act updated

New consumer laws have come into effect, with the aim of making consumer and retail rights clearer, including guaranteeing shoppers a full refund within 30 days of buying a faulty item.

The 2015 Consumer Rights Act is one of the biggest shake-ups to consumer rights in a generation, replacing the Sale of Goods Act, which has been in place since the 1970s.

In addition to entitling consumers to a full refund for up to 30 days after the purchase, the new law also protects digital purchases such as downloads and apps, gives shoppers the right to a repair or replacements, as well as making it easier for consumers to challenge hidden fees and charges, preventing companies from enforcing terms if they are deemed to be unfair - even if they are written in plain language.

In the case of a dispute, certified Alternative Dispute Resolution providers, such as the Retail Ombudsman, are now available to help as a quicker and cheaper alternative to going through the courts.

Business Minister Nick Boles said: "Whether it’s downloading music or buying a fridge freezer, the Consumer Rights Act makes it easier to understand your rights. UK consumers spend 90 billion pounds a month and it is important they are able to shop with confidence.

“These changes will also simplify the law for businesses so they can spend less time worrying about unclear and unwieldy regulations.”