As Christmas is approaching it is good to know, that the European law ensures us the same rights and same protection, no matter where we are in the EU.Within the EU, we can purchase anything without having to worry about paying customs duties or additional taxes when we return home. Whether we go to another country to shop or whether we order something over the internet, by post or telephone, we are protected by these basic consumer rights:
Transparency: EU law requires that sellers give you full details of who they are, what they are selling, and how much it costs (including taxes and delivery charges).
Quality: If you buy something that turns out to be broken, you can return it and have it repaired or replaced. If repair or replacement is not possible, you can ask for a price reduction or a complete refund of your money.
Contract terms and conditions: Unfair contract terms are prohibited by EU law.
Safety: EU countries have among the highest product safety standards in the world.
Price comparison: Supermarkets must give you the ‘unit price’ of products – how much they cost per kilo or per litre – to help you decide which is the best value for money.
What happens if your new computer breaks, your Internet order doesn’t arrive or you want compensation for the night you stayed in a hotel when your flight was cancelled? You are entitled to certain guarantees and support under EU consumer policy. If a trader refuses to recognise your rights you can always get in touch with one of the EU’s consumer organisations. They have an important role to play in enforcing consumer policy and boosting consumer confidence. The European Consumer Centres network (ECC-Net, http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/ecc/index_en.htm) has centres in every EU country, Iceland and Norway. It provides free help and advice to consumers on their rights when buying goods and services from traders based in another EU country, Iceland or Norway. If you have a problem with a purchase made from another country, the ECC-Net can help you contact the trader and find an amicable solution. If this isn’t possible, it can also advise you on alternative ways of dealing with your complaint, for example an out-of-court procedure. The ECC-Net is funded jointly by the European Commission and the participating countries.
Image: www.net-jg.hu
Source:
Europe Direct Information Centre of Hajdú-Bihar
Hajdú-Bihar Megyei Europe Direct Információs Központ
