The biggest shake-up of consumer law in a generation comes into effect on October 1, 2015.

In a bid to boost, clarify and update protection for Coventry shoppers, the new Consumer Rights Act is introduced today - and we have everything you could possibly want to know about what it means for YOU.

The rules and regulations needed modernising to protect all shoppers and purchases and to ensure that retailers understand their obligations to customers, with the UK marketplace changing rapidly as shoppers spend money on digital content - from downloaded music and video, to games.

Now, Coventry shoppers are protected more than ever. Below is everything you need to know from today onwards...

What is the new Consumer Rights Act 2015?

The Act aims to make consumer rights much clearer and simpler.

It consolidates three big pieces of consumer law - the Sale of Goods Act, the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations and the Supply of Goods and Services Act - to make shopping in the UK a safer and easier process if things go wrong.

What are the main changes?





Does this apply to digital purchases too?

The 30-day rule does not apply to digital purchases but retailers have one opportunity to repair or replace any goods and the consumer can choose which option they prefer.

What about unfair terms and small print?

The key terms of a contract, including price, can be assessed for fairness.

This is an improvement for customers because previously such terms were exempt from a fairness test if they were written in plain language.

If a term is unfair, the company is no longer allowed to enforce it.

7. What do I do if a company or staff member still denies me a refund or disputes the new rules?

Businesses have an obligation to ensure all staff understand the new Act, but certified Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) providers are available to help when a dispute cannot be settled between the business and the consumer.

This should be a quicker and cheaper option than going through the courts - and you can find them here.