Competition & Consumer Practice Area: Warranty Specialisation

The Competition & Consumer practice area focuses on ensuring that businesses treat their customers fairly and follow the rules set by New Zealand law. One important part of this area is the warranty specialisation, which deals with the promises that businesses make about their products and services.

What is a Warranty?

A warranty is a guarantee that a product will work as promised for a certain period. For example, if you buy a new washing machine, the store might offer a warranty that covers repairs for two years. This means if the washing machine breaks down due to a fault, the store will fix it for free.

Why is Warranty Important?

Warranties protect consumers by ensuring they receive what they paid for. If a product does not meet the promised standards, consumers have the right to ask for a repair, replacement, or refund. For instance, if you buy a pair of shoes that fall apart after a month, the warranty should allow you to return them for a new pair or get your money back.

New Zealand Law on Warranties

In New Zealand, the Consumer Guarantees Act provides important rights for consumers. This law states that products must be of acceptable quality, fit for purpose, and match any description given. If a business fails to meet these guarantees, consumers can take action.

How We Can Help

Our team in the Competition & Consumer practice area can assist you if you have issues with a warranty. We can help you understand your rights, guide you on how to make a complaint, and represent you if you need to take further action. For example, if a company refuses to honour a warranty, we can help you negotiate or take legal steps to resolve the issue.

Conclusion

Understanding warranties is essential for every consumer in New Zealand. If you have questions or need help regarding a warranty issue, our Competition & Consumer practice area is here to support you.