Do you know your rights as a consumer?

We all have rights. Well you might know your individual rights as a citizen of a country, but what about your rights as a consumer? Not everyone knows what they should expect when they conduct business.

The Right to safety and protection from hazardous goods or services.

So this means that consumers have the right to know that  whatever goods or services they are using will not put them or their family at risk.  Currently we are in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, so this involves ensuring that customers are safe as they shop. This includes businesses following the guidelines set such as:  social distancing, wearing masks and sanitization procedures.

As a consumer you must ensure that you are not making choices without having access to accurate information. For example, at times the signs that business operators use to lure you in the store can lack details. One store advertised a “Buy One Get One’ sale. Initially I had thought that it meant ‘Buy one item and get another one free’, however on further investigation it really meant ‘buy one item and get the second item of lesser value half off the original price’.

Needless to say, I pointed out to the owner of the store that the sign was misleading and she apologized for the confusion.  Therefore it is important to get all the information before deciding if it is really a good buy.

If you don’t like the service that you receive at any business, as a consumer you have the right to leave and take your businesses elsewhere. In some cases however, there are contracts signed between the parties and that might affect the decision to continue to stay with the company.

This is a very important right that all consumers should know! If you have received poor service or faulty products, then it is vital that you be aware that you can be compensated. At times you might only need to speak with the manager or supervisor to get the problem resolved. However at times this is not sufficient and further action needs to be taken. Consumers can report businesses in breach by using The Consumer Affairs Commission Jamaica website and fill out their online form or call their offices.

To read more consumer rights check out The Consumer Affairs Commission Jamaica website  https://www.consumeraffairsjamaica.gov.jm/portal/index.php.

Be a smart consumer! Always know your rights!  What are your thoughts on the issue? Drop me a line below!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner online writer

Tags: consumer, pandemic, products, rights, safety, services