The Criteria to Return Something I Bought in South Africa to the Store

Can I Return Something I Bought in South Africa in Store?

There are a number of sections in the Consumer Protection Act that allow goods to be returned, but it is important to note that there is no general right of return. For example, when a consumer buys an item from a store and the next day they regret spending so much money, or simply do not like the item, the consumer cannot return the item simply because they have had a change of heart. Some retailers do allow consumers to do this, but it is not a consumer’s legal right to do so. A change of heart is not a legal reason to return an item.

When can things be returned to store in South Africa?

Implied warranty of quality

In terms of s56 (read with s55) of the CPA, all goods sold to a consumer are sold with an implied warranty of quality, that cannot be contracted out of or revoked. The warranty gives the consumer the right to receive goods that:

• are reasonably suitable for the purpose that they are intended to be used for,
• are of good quality, free of defects and in good working order, and
• will be durable and usable for a reasonable period of time.

If goods are found not to comply with these requirements then, for up to 6 months after receiving the goods, the consumer can:

• return the goods, or
• get the goods replaced, or
• get the goods repaired.