The Sale of Goods Act

Introduction

The Sale of Goods Act 1979 is the main piece of legislation helping buyers to obtain redress when their purchases 'go wrong'. It is in the interest of anyone who sells goods or services to understand the implications of the Act for them and the responsibilities they have under it.

Essentially, the Act states that what you sell must fit its description, be fit for its purpose and be of satisfactory quality. If not, you - as the supplier - are obliged to sort out the problem.

Aside from the legal issues, it makes sense to comply with the requirements of the Act in order to build customer relationships.

This guide explains the Act and how to deal properly with complaints made under it. Remember that while the Act generally applies to protect individual consumers, it can also apply to the sale of goods between businesses.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Your responsibilities at the time you sell goods
• Your responsibilities if you sell services
• The rights of customers: goods
• The rights of customers: services
• What do I have to do if a customer complains?
• Additional rights for consumers when they make a complaint
• What happens if I can't resolve a complaint?
• Here's how I complied with the Sale of Goods Act

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