Have you ever heard of the Distance Selling Regulations?? Probably not but it's worth taking a look at them. I can hear your moans already people so I'll give you the highlights. (There's that sigh of relief)
The Distance Selling Regulations apply to any items purchased where you can't touch the item i.e. online, from the TV, phone, mail order etc. They give every customer a 7 day 'cooling off' period on any orders placed in which you are entitled to cancel or return your order. Therefore within this time period you are entitled to return anything that doesn't meet your expectations.
Now, most companies will allow a longer period for returns but the 7 day period gives you the ability to get your delivery charge back. You simply need to inform the company where you purchased the item/s that you will be making a return within 7 days. This doesn't mean you have to return the items within the 7 days, just that you need to inform the company that you will be making the return. You should then return the item/s within a reasonable time frame (isn't it brilliant that you don't have to rush down to the post office?).
A number of companies have been caught flouting these rules, Next being the main one caught out in the news and most will now have ensured that they are adhering to the regulations but always make sure that you are getting what you are entitled to.
Check out the following for more details:
http://www.oft.gov.uk/about-the-oft/legal-powers/legal/distance-selling-regulations/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/10560466
If you have any problems you know where I am!
