Consider the following tips before you buy something, especially if you're about to spend a lot of money.
Tips from the Office of Fair Trading
- Is what I'm about to buy what I'm really looking for?
- Can I afford it?
- How I am going to pay - cheque, cash, credit card or in some other way?
- Should I shop around to compare prices or after-sales service deals?
- If I'm buying this on the spur of the moment - will I regret it?
Tips to avoid problems with services
- Avoid traders who come to your home selling anything.
- Always use a qualified or reputable trader.
- Get written quotations, not estimates. Ask around a few traders to get an idea of the average price.
- If a timescale is agreed or is important to you, get it confirmed in writing beforehand.
- Check the quality of the work before you sign or pay for it.
- Never pay in full before the job has been completed to a satisfactory standard.
Tips to avoid problems with goods
- Shop around
- Compare prices
- Examine the goods for faults
- Check the small print
- Check the returns policy
Don't forget to work out whether you can afford the item / service and how you'll pay for it.
Overspent? Get advice about dealing with debt.
How can I find out more?
Use this link to the Consumer Direct website for more information about what to do before you buy (external website).
Need more help? Live in Manchester? Send us an email
Information Provider:
Manchester Advice
Date Written:
21 April 2006
Links Updated:
13 April 2010
This information is for guidance only and is not an authoritative statement on the law. Please read our Terms and Conditions.
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