If you buy goods from a business and something is wrong with them, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 gives you clear legal protection.

This guide explains what counts as “faulty goods”, what your rights are, and what remedies you can use.

For a broader overview, see How It Protects You (Goods, Services and Digital Content).

What Are Faulty Goods?

Goods are faulty if they do not meet the legal standards set out in the Act.

Goods must be:

  • Of satisfactory quality.
  • Fit for purpose.
  • As described.

If they fail any of these tests, they are legally considered to be in breach of contract.

1. Satisfactory Quality

Goods must meet the standard a reasonable person would consider acceptable, taking into account:

  • The price paid.
  • The description.
  • Any advertising or labelling.

This includes:

  • Freedom from defects.
  • Safety.
  • Durability.
  • Acceptable appearance and finish.

For example, a new washing machine that stops working after two weeks is unlikely to be of satisfactory quality.

See What Statutory Rights Apply to Goods?.

2. Fit for Purpose

Goods must be capable of doing what they are normally used for.

If you tell the trader you need the goods for a specific purpose before buying them, and rely on their advice, the goods must also meet that specific purpose.

For example, if you tell a retailer you need paint suitable for a bathroom and they recommend a product, it must be suitable for humid conditions.

3. As Described

The goods must match any description given to you.

This includes:

  • Product listings.
  • Labels.
  • Photos.
  • Sales staff statements.
  • Samples or models shown before purchase.

If a jacket is advertised as genuine leather but arrives made from synthetic material, it is not as described.

When Are Goods Not Considered Faulty?

The trader may not be responsible if:

  • You were clearly told about the fault before buying.
  • The defect was obvious on inspection.
  • You caused the damage yourself.
  • The issue is normal wear and tear.

The law protects you against faults present at the time of delivery, not damage caused later by misuse.

Your Remedies for Faulty Goods

The Act provides a structured system of remedies.

Short-Term Right to Reject (First 30 Days)

You usually have 30 days from delivery to reject faulty goods and claim a full refund.

Read: Short-Term Right to Reject

Repair or Replacement

After 30 days, the trader normally has one opportunity to repair or replace the goods.

Read: Repair or Replacement

Final Right to Reject or Price Reduction

If repair or replacement fails, you can reject the goods or keep them and request a price reduction.

Read: Final Right to Reject or Price Reduction

The 6-Month Rule

If a fault appears within the first six months, the law presumes the fault was present at delivery unless the trader proves otherwise.

Read: Time Limits and the 6-Month Rule

If the Trader Refuses to Help

If a business refuses to honour your rights:

In Simple Terms

Goods are faulty if they are defective, unsafe, not durable, not fit for purpose, or not as described.

If that happens, the law gives you a clear path: reject, repair, replace, or reduce the price.

Businesses cannot remove these rights with “no refund” policies.