Great deal on a sofa or a great deal of headache?

IF YOU are thinking of purchasing a three-piece suite or any upholstered furniture for delivery in time for Christmas, Consumer Direct has some important points for you to bear in mind.

If you have bought a three-piece suite it must be:

Of satisfactory quality
Fit for its purpose
As described

When the goods are faulty

If you have only had the suite for a few weeks or haven't had a reasonable opportunity to check it, you may be entitled to a refund for a fault or poor description, or alternatively you may request a replacement.

If the fault is only minor and can be easily put right, it is reasonable to accept a repair. This won't stop you claiming a replacement or refund if the repair turns out to be unsatisfactory.

If you have had the suite longer than a few weeks or have had a reasonable opportunity to check it, you are probably still entitled to a repair or replacement.

The repair should be carried out within a reasonable time and the repair should restore it to a satisfactory condition. If this does not happen, you are entitled to a replacement or compensation. This could be the cost of having somebody else repair it.

If the suite cannot be replaced or repaired economically, you are entitled to a refund. The trader may make a reduction from the price you paid to allow for the use you have had from the suite.

Remember, if you are entitled to a refund, replacement, repair or compensation, it is the trader who must sort out your problem. The trader cannot tell you to go back to the manufacturer.

If you buy the goods on credit, you may be able to claim against the finance company
You have no rights if you choose the wrong size or give the wrong measurements
You have no rights if you change your mind
If you purchase the goods by mail order, internet, telephone or fax, except those goods which are made to order, you have seven working days to cancel a contract.

If things go wrong

If you determine that there is a problem with the suite you have purchased, do the following:

If you can, stop using the item of furniture
Find your proof of purchase. If you haven't got a receipt, you can use a credit card voucher or cheque stub. Remember it is up to you show where and when you bought the suite
You will then need to contact the trader straight away to report the problem. If you bought the suite locally, visit the trader and take any proof of purchase with you.

Should you experience any difficulty resolving your problem, contact Consumer Direct for further advice.