Consumeradvice

Consumer Spending

I have had a landscape gardener working at my property, and they have told me they are nearly finished. They have supplied me with my final bill, which is almost double what was initially agreed. I do not think this is right. Can you help?

When contracting with a trader to provide a service, the agreements on a final price can differ. Some tradesmen may offer an estimate at the beginning of the job, whilst others may have agreed a set price with you based on the specifications the work. Quotes vs Estimates A set price is often referred to …

I have had a landscape gardener working at my property, and they have told me they are nearly finished. They have supplied me with my final bill, which is almost double what was initially agreed. I do not think this is right. Can you help? Read More »

Delayed and Cancelled Flights – Your Rights Explained

With news of flights being delayed and cancelled by airlines, it is important that we understand our rights in relation to refunds and compensation; the assistance that airlines should provide to delayed passengers; and how we can go about claiming it. With claims of staff shortages, air traffic control restrictions, runway works, and airport handling …

Delayed and Cancelled Flights – Your Rights Explained Read More »

I had work completed on my home, but it has not been finished correctly by the tradesmen, and I don’t know what to do. Can you help?

When you hire a trader to carry out work on your property, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 states that the trader should carry out that work using ‘reasonable care and skill’. That is a job that is completed to the level of care and skill expected of a competent trader within their profession. If you believe the level …

I had work completed on my home, but it has not been finished correctly by the tradesmen, and I don’t know what to do. Can you help? Read More »

I have been having some problems with a car I purchased from a dealership. It has been making noises since I purchased it and warning lights have appeared on the dashboard. The dealership management have said it is not their responsibility. Can you help?

When you purchase a car or vehicle from a trader, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 states that it should be of satisfactory quality. For a used vehicle, this means it should be in the condition expected of a car of its age and the price you paid, including it having all relevant documents such as …

I have been having some problems with a car I purchased from a dealership. It has been making noises since I purchased it and warning lights have appeared on the dashboard. The dealership management have said it is not their responsibility. Can you help? Read More »

Making the Most of our Money as Consumers – #simplifyspending

Everyone is seeing the cost of household bills and shopping increase. Whilst some are preparing to weather the storm, for many, the choice between heating and eating is becoming a stark reality. There are things we can do to reduce our outgoings and help stretch our money that little bit further. As part of Advice …

Making the Most of our Money as Consumers – #simplifyspending Read More »

I took my puppy to the vet towards the end of last year as he had a skin condition. The vet did not help, and in fact made the situation worse, confirmed by my new surgeon who has now resolved the issue with the correct treatment. This was expensive for me. What can I do about this?

Taking a pet to the vet for treatment is considered a ‘professional service’ in relation to consumer legislation. As with any professional service, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 requires that the service you receive be provided with reasonable care and skill. What can I do if I am unhappy about the service received? If you …

I took my puppy to the vet towards the end of last year as he had a skin condition. The vet did not help, and in fact made the situation worse, confirmed by my new surgeon who has now resolved the issue with the correct treatment. This was expensive for me. What can I do about this? Read More »

P&O Ferry Disruptions & Cancellations: Your Consumer Rights

Recent news about staff redundancies and disruption to ferry journeys on P&O ferries may have left consumers (and staff) with questions about what it means for them. On Thursday 17th March 2022, P&O ferries released a statement that all UK sailings had been suspended, pending a major announcement. The announcement was made that 800 crew …

P&O Ferry Disruptions & Cancellations: Your Consumer Rights Read More »

I have been having ongoing issues with money and debt since my hours at work were reduced during the pandemic. These have been slowly increasing back to normal but overspending during the Christmas period has set me back again. Can you help?

I’m sorry to hear that the pandemic impacted on your hours at work and your financial situation. Many have found themselves in a similar position, with reduction in hours and loss of employment. Additionally, the festive period can be an expensive time, with January having to be one of the most frugal months of the …

I have been having ongoing issues with money and debt since my hours at work were reduced during the pandemic. These have been slowly increasing back to normal but overspending during the Christmas period has set me back again. Can you help? Read More »

January Sales – Making Most of our Money at the Start of the new year

January can traditionally be a tough month for managing finances, but the knock-on effect of the coronavirus pandemic means that it may be even more difficult for some people to make their final pay of the year last to the end of January. In our recent Boxing Day article, we looked at increases to consumer …

January Sales – Making Most of our Money at the Start of the new year Read More »

I’m planning to hit the January sales but have been known to overspend considerably in previous years. Can you offer any advice before I go shopping??

The January sales can be a good time to pick up a bargain, both online and on the high street. There are different things that we can do as consumers to make sure that we avoid living beyond our means. Create a Budget The simplest way to prevent an accidental overspend is to create a …

I’m planning to hit the January sales but have been known to overspend considerably in previous years. Can you offer any advice before I go shopping?? Read More »