WINNIPEG, MB. – The Holiday Season is a perfect time to remind you that it’s important to review warranty and return policies with that perfect holiday gift or a great Boxing Day deal.

Companies set their own policies for returns, refunds, and how long you have to return an item. The Consumer Protection Office encourages us to be aware of warranty rights and be attentive to return policies related purchases this holiday season.

Be aware of any special terms and conditions that may apply around the holiday season. All sales should be considered final unless a store’s refund and exchange policy says otherwise.

It is good practice to keep receipts as proof of purchase and as a written reminder of a store’s return or exchange policy. If a store offers returns, take an item back to the place of purchase within the return period stated on the receipt. Consumers may be offered the option to exchange the item, or to take a refund in the same form as the original payment or a store credit. Some sellers may charge a restocking or service fee when issuing a refund.

Warranties exist to support consumers when a good or service fails to meet reasonable expectations. In Manitoba, the seller is responsible for all duties, liabilities, obligations and warranties applicable to purchased goods or services. This means that if an item needs to be repaired or replaced under warranty, the seller is responsible for shipping costs or other incidental expenses. Consumers must receive a written record of all repairs or replacements made under a warranty.

More expensive items such as electronics and appliances often come with full or limited warranties. Consumers should read the warranty carefully, focusing on what is covered and for how long. For an extra fee, retailers often sell optional extended warranties to increase the warranty coverage period, broaden the number of defects covered, or include repair costs. Before deciding to purchase an extended warranty, always ask the retailer for details of the manufacturer’s warranty that comes with the product.

The Consumer Protection Office administers Manitoba’s consumer protection legislation and hears, mediates and investigates consumer-related complaints. For more information about consumer rights related to warranties, returns and exchanges, click here.

The Manitoba Post with files from Government of Manitoba

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