When shopping for the holidays, we want to buy only the best. Most of the time, we need extra assurance that we made the right choice, and in the event we didn’t, we deserve legal protection and compensation. In this blog post, we’ll talk about a few basics you should know about product warranties, your rights as a consumer, and how they can help you to make the most out of your holiday shopping.
Written warranties
Most products we buy come with written warranties, such as appliances, gadgets, clothes, etc. Before purchasing, make sure to look or ask for a written warranty for your product. Here are a few things to consider, according to the Federal Trade Commission:
What’s covered under the warranty?
———- If your product comes with multiple parts, check if the warranty only covers specific components.
———- Are there conditions or requirements in order to claim warranty coverage? For example, some limited warranties are only applicable if the products are used according to directions or original purpose or registered on their website.
How will the company fulfill the warranty? Will you be compensated either by refund, repair, or replacement?
How long is the warranty coverage?
Check the company’s reputation.
——– Even if it’s a company you already know, do your research. Are there any complaints or comments about them regarding their warranties?
Implied warranties
Early this year, we shared a post on our Facebook page about implied warranties. These are automatic warranties that are applied by law to almost all products, whether it is written on the box or not. By selling the item to the public, the retailer implies that it will work properly and at least be of average quality, as long as the consumer uses the item as intended.
Even if your product doesn’t come with a written warranty, it almost certainly has an implied warranty. Unless the seller expressly marks the product “as is” or gives written notice that they do not offer a warranty, the law still provides the implied warranty to your product. While different states have different implied warranty expirations, this usually lasts on average, 4 years.
To be safe, it’s always best to get warranty specifics in writing.
Are spoken warranties valid?
Sometimes, you’ll hear sellers verbally promise a warranty, such as a free repair or replacement. Does that count? As a rule, and especially if you’re buying an expensive item, always get these agreements in writing. In fact, continue to collect documents, screenshots, images, etc. throughout your transaction.
Do you have questions about or need help with Consumer Protection? Schedule a consultation with us.
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