Guarantees - what are they?

When we buy electrical goods usually they are covered by a guarantee which is often provided by the manufacturer and this is normally provided free of charge.

The guarantee normally will cover repairs free of charge in the event that the goods are faulty due to a manufacturing fault and this is usually for a period of 12 months.

Manufacturers are not legally obliged to provide you with a guarantee but, if they do, it must be in plain English and explain clearly how to make a claim.


Warranties - what are they?

Warranties are very similar to guarantees in terms of the cover they provide, but usually you have to pay extra for a warranty.

Most electrical stores provide these, which will normally cover repairs for a period of up to five years.

These kind of warranties can be sometimes known as "extended warranties".


Things to remember

If you need to make a claim on either a guarantee or warranty, there are a few things that you need to remember:* Always make sure you read the terms and conditions to make sure what you are and what you're not covered for. Don't assume the level of cover.

* Find out whether you will be expected to pay a proportion of the costs.

* Always check whether you have to pay for the work upfront and then claim it back.

* If you have an insurance- backed guarantee, make sure you have the certificate giving details of the insurance company.

* You can still rely on your statutory rights against the seller of the goods/services. You don't have to have a guarantee or warranty.

* Some warranties can cover you for accidental damage or theft, so this may be worth checking.

* If the time limit has expired on the guarantee then you cannot claim under the guarantee. However, you may be able to make a claim against the seller of the goods or the finance company (if applicable).

* A manufacturer will often ask you to register your guarantee by filling in and returning a card. You should do this straight away as you might have trouble claiming later if you haven't, particularly if you have no proof of the date of purchase.


* If you require any advice regarding any of the above then phone Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06