Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 Your rights

Lying traders could be in breach of contract

The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 (CPRs) don't actually give you new legal rights and can't be used to end contracts you have entered into as a result of trader's poor practices. Often though, the trader's actions will give rise to a corresponding claim.

For example, if the trader lies about a product's capabilities then you may be able to argue that the goods weren't 'as described' or 'fit for purpose' – putting the trader in breach of contract. You could also have a claim for misrepresentation.

Either way, if you act quickly you will be entitled to end the contract and get your money back. If you buy a product as the result of a high-pressure doorstep sale you have a legal right to cancel the contract for the next seven days.

To report a trader for a breach of the CPRs, write to your local Trading Standards department (details can be found in your telephone directory or on the Trading Standards website) giving full details of the company, the practice and how it impacted on you.

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