The Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013
There have been significant changes in the law recently and we are certain many businesses will not be fully aware of their obligations, particularly in respect of rules governing off-premise contracts.
The Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013 came into force on 13th June 2014. These Regulations apply to any contract between a consumer and a trader, for the supply of goods or services to the consumer. The requirements of the law are different depending where the contract is made. The Regulations apply to contracts with a total payment of more than £42 and they set the cooling-off period to a minimum of 14 calendar days.
The attached Trader Information leaflet gives advice on the requirements of the above regulations including an example of the notice of the right to cancel. Failure to provide a notice of the right to cancel in the prescribed form is a criminal offence and if found guilty of such an offence you could be liable to a fine of up to £5000.
Please note the leaflet is not an authoritative interpretation of the law and is intended only for guidance.
We know most businesses prefer to trade lawfully, and given adequate guidance and support, they are able to get things right with little intervention from ourselves. Helping willing businesses to comply allows us to focus enforcement action on those businesses that deserve it most – those that act dishonestly, particularly with elderly and vulnerable consumers.
If you require further detailed advice please contact your local Trading Standards.
