The rights of a consumer in South Africa are set out in the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008. The Act groups them into nine fundamental consumer rights that apply to most goods and services supplied in the ordinary course of business.
The nine consumer rights
- The right to equality in the consumer market
- The right to privacy
- The right to choose
- The right to disclosure and information
- The right to fair and responsible marketing
- The right to fair and honest dealing
- The right to fair, just and reasonable terms and conditions
- The right to fair value, good quality and safety
- The right to hold suppliers accountable
In practice, the right most people rely on is the right to safe, good-quality goods. Under section 56, if goods are defective within six months of delivery, you can return them and choose a repair, a replacement, or a refund.
The Act protects individuals and smaller businesses. Juristic persons with an asset value or annual turnover above R2 million fall outside most of it.
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This answer is general information about South African law and does not create an attorney and client relationship. Please speak to the firm about your specific matter.