PROPER BUSINESS PRACTICES

With an aim to combat the misunderstandings that occur between buyers and sellers of goods and services in the marketplace from time to time the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) has listed below some basic business practice tips.

• Customers should expect that the description of items provided by the vendor whether written or verbal, should have a true & adequate descriptions of good and/or service. The description should include the brand, quality, quantity, expiry date, composition, style, model, history of the good &/or service at issue.
• A receipt should be issued for all purchases and should have the following details: purchase price; purchase date, a description of the item, the name, address and contact number of the vendor. Late payments under a hire purchase agreement (HPA) results in interest being charged to your account.
• All terms and conditions of sale/purchase should be outlined. The bailiff cost is always the cost to the consumer.
• Where applicable a guideline of proper assembly /usage of item, should be distributed with the purchase.
• Warrantees/Guarantees should be explicitly outlined at the time of sale.
• Redress (return &/or refund) policies should be clearly stated. Vendors should note that the Sale of Goods Act requires that consumers are compensated in the form of an exchange, repair or refund if :

1. a good is found to be defective
2. if the item fails to match up to the description .
3. if a fault is identified after purchase, which could not have been identified at the time of purchase.

• Goods &/or services should be delivered in accordance with agreements.
• Vendors should honour advertised/publicized prices and promises.
• Vendors should take care to address customer concerns/questions/ suggestions.
• Vendors should charge GCT in the manner prescribed by the Tax Administration Department.
• Inventory should be checked and expired items removed.
• Caution should be exercised when selling to minors.
• Become familiar with and practice in accordance to the Acts relating to Consumer Protection.

Tell us what issues you want addressed

Send e-mail to: cacjam@infochan.com or star@gleaner.com

Write to us at: 1B Holborn Road, Kingston 10 Or call us at: 926-1650-2 or toll free 1-888-991-4470, ask for our Information Desk