| What's Your Problem
? |
| I recently bought a new computer from a high street store. The sales assistant tried to sell me extended warranty insurance to cover me in case the computer needed repairing. It seemed really expensive so I refused the insurance. Was this the wrong thing to do? |
| Extended warranty insurance on an item should protect
you in case it fails to work. What you need to think about is whether the
insurance adds anything to the consumer rights that you already have and
whether or not you want to pay extra money for additional cover.
The Sale of Goods Act 1979 says that the computer must be of satisfactory quality. This means that it must meet a standard that a reasonable person would regard as satisfactory, taking into account the computers description, price and any other relevant circumstances. The computer should last the length of time that a reasonable person would expect. This means that if the computer breaks down within the first few years, you may be able to get the store to repair it free of charge. You should also remember that most computers come with a free manufacturer's guarantee. The extended warranty may take effect at the end of the manufacturer's guarantee but paying extra for extended warranty insurance could also be a waste of money. If you claim under the extended warranty, you may lose other legal rights against the trader. On the other hand, taking out warranty insurance could make it easier and quicker to get the computer repaired and this may be important to you if, for example, you keep important information on the computer. If you require any more advice, please contact your local CAB. |
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