WINNIPEG – The Provinces Consumer Protection Office is reminding people to be informed about holiday return and exchange policies.
Stores offer different return and exchange policies and those policies are not regulated by law, meaning you may not have any recourse if sales are considered final.
The CPO offered the following guidelines which may be helpful when it comes to returns and exchanges:
Ask about a store’s refund and exchange policy before making a purchase.
Keep all receipts. Most sellers will require proof of purchase for a refund or exchange.
If a store allows a shopper to exchange or refund a purchase, merchandise should be returned as soon as possible and be in good condition.
Some sellers may keep a portion of the refund as a service fee or restocking charge.
In the case of faulty or defective merchandise, the seller has the option of repairing, replacing or giving a refund.
Stores that provide refunds can choose how to do so, with cash, credit, gift cards or credit notes.
Ask about product warranties or guaranties in the event of a defective item, especially if sales are final.
You can learn more about consumer protection issues and your rights under the law by download the free Consumer Protection mobile app or call 204-945-3800, (toll-free) 1-800-782-0067, or by email at consumers@gov.mb.ca. More information is also available at www.gov.mb.ca/justice/cp/cpo.
