IOW Trading Standards Unit

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The Isle of Wight Council Trading Standards Service issues important advice to shoppers making sure they know their rights when buying goods from traders and dealers who trade on the IOW.

THE TRADING STANDARDS BUYING ADVICE

Trading Standards said to me:

Twelve Dodgy Dealers – Avoid counterfeit goods. Whenever you see a lot of cheap goods for sale, often by street traders. The goods will often be poor quality and in some instances dangerous.

Eleven...Well you will be surprised to learn – You have no rights if the gift is unwanted. You are relying on the trader’s goodwill and should check their returns policy before you buy any items to be given as gifts. Some stores give gift receipts.

Ten Lights a Burning – Make sure fairy lights are safe and have the CE mark. Never leave candles or decorative tea lights burning unattended.

Nine Faulty Presents – Always examine presents as soon as you can and take any defective goods back immediately. The sooner you take them back the more rights you have.

Eight Shops a Shutting – Empty shops are often occupied by traders offering cheap goods especially toys. They may often be of poor quality and the trader may no longer be there in a few weeks. If the goods are faulty then you may have difficulty finding the trader. Make sure toys are suitable for the age of the child and meet all relevant safety standards (look for the CE mark).

Seven Cards a Swiping – Pay for goods over £100 on a credit card. You may have extra protection if things go wrong.

Six Silly Bargains – Don’t be too hasty to grab a bargain. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.

Five Doorbell Rings – Beware of doorstep sellers. A lot of household burglaries happen over the holiday periods and doorstep cold calling is often the way many unscrupulous burglars gain entry into your house.

Four Vouchers Dated – Check the expiry dates if you are buying gift vouchers as a present. Many will have an expiry date and may be useless if not used in time.

Three Expensive Guarantees – You are not obliged to buy a guarantee or warranty. Many give no more protection that you already have by law. Check the small print to see what you are covered for.

Two Do Remember – Alcohol (18), Cigarettes(18), Fireworks(18), Solvents(18), Knives(18), Spray Paints(16), DVD’s and Computer Games(the age stated on the packaging) are all age restricted goods. This means you have to be a certain age to buy them. This is for your health and safety!!

One Receipt – You should keep your receipts, as without this you have no proof of purchase, and returning goods may be very difficult.

Isle of Wight Trading Standards Service, Jubilee Stores, The Quay,

NEWPORT IW PO30 2EH Tel: 01983 823370