Rogue or unfair trading
Your rights if you enter into an agreement at home
With effect from 13th June 2014, Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013, came into force and replaced the Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2000 and the Cancellation of Contracts made in a Consumer's Home or Place of Work etc Regulations 2008.
Although there are several similarities there are also important differences within the new Regulations, which will apply to contracts made on and away from business premises, and also introduce new guidelines for businesses providing digital content. These Regulations will affect most businesses that contract with consumers, regardless of where and how the contract is entered into.
Cancellation Rights will continue to apply to off-premises and distance contracts, however, there has been an increase with regard to the time a consumer has to change their minds.
The 'cooling off' period has been extended from 7 days to 14 days and consumers should return goods within 14 days of cancellation.
For guidance on cancellation rights, see Citizens Advice: Cancelling building or decorating work.
If in doubt, don't sign anything.
To report a rogue trader in South Tyneside, email trading.standards@southtyneside.gov.uk or contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.