HELP WITH DEPOSIT QUERY

[KUTEKEANE]

Ordered suite of furniture before xmas. Now ready for delivery.We have changed our mind.On date of order we had great customer service from the rep. Asked for €50-60 deposit.Like eegits had €500 on us so put that down.We knew walking into the shop this w/e would probably have a battle to get any of it back and she, the manager, will not budge. Most we get is credit note.Do we have any case fact that receipt does NOT state that deposit is non-refundable. The sales rep didnt remind us when we handed over that amt that it wouldnt be refundable (our word against his of course). Manager says 'oh he shouldnt have only has for that amt on a suite'. Wish we listened and only put down the darn 50 quid.Credit note probably is only option, just that lot of stuff in shop is either fairly expensive or a bit alternative and the money would be much more useful.Cannot locate such info on our national consumer websites as we are not in fact consumers of the product?! Thoughts, comments appreciated.

 

[Marion]

Hi KK

I'm afraid that you entered a legal contract to purchase the furniture when you agreed to pay a deposit. The shop could sue you for the balance. They are acting within their rights.

A deposit is non-refundable unless the opposite is stated at the time of purchase of the good or service.

It's a pity that you chose to pay so much down on the deposit. But, that's neither here not there now.

Really, your only option is to try and reason with the manager - state that you really don't like the furniture.

Rather than have a credit note for €500 in a shop where you don't wish to purchase, perhaps you might suggest that you would be willing to lose the balance which they originally wanted - €50. They may decide to accept this. I see this as your only option.

Marion :hat

 

[rainyday]

There is no general right to refund (of deposit or total cost) in case of 'change of mind'. In all fairness, what did you reckon was the purpose of asking for a deposit (from the shop's point of view)?