BE CAREFUL WHEN YOU SHOP!

Many complaints have come into our offices from consumers who have purchased goods or services, which turned out to be of poor quality. As if this was not already stressful the complainants then discover that some vendors are unwilling or unable to provide redress in any form (repair/replacement/refund). For example, a lady purchased a stove in the downtown area recently and took the ‘precaution’ of having it installed by the store’s technician. Realizing that something was not right when she started to smell gas, she reported the matter to the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC). The item was sent to the Bureau of Standards for testing and results found that the stove – from the U.S.A- was set to facilitate natural gas (LNG), and merely required that the settings be changed to LPG. The store’s technician was not aware of this.

This proves the point that not all ‘technicians’ are competent and that not every form of redress is effective. We therefore want to warn consumers to take extra precautions when buying items.

Choose a Store that is Reputable. Do not be carried away by enticing advertisements or convenient locations. Instead, look for those stores that sell good quality products and take care of their customers’ complaints in a speedy manner.

Do a Thorough Examination of the Product. If you have to, be willing to bend down and check for damage; look for a label and ask if the product has the Bureau of Standards’ Stamp of Approval or has been tested by the Bureau.

Assume Something Could go Wrong and Ask about Warranties and Guarantees. Most of us are so happy with new purchases (especially if we get a bargain or discount) that we don’t ask about the store’s policy on redress. DO NOT guess or assume anything, ask. Try to get all commitments and promises in writing.

Get and Keep Receipts. This is your proof of purchase, regardless of how much you spend, be it $10 or $10,000. If you do not have a receipt, you are relying on the vendor’s conscience or goodwill, and, as experience has taught us, not all vendors excercise these.

Spread the Word. When you have done business with a company and received excellent service, tell others. If your experience was less-than-desirable, still tell others about it. In your telling do not forget to inform the Vendor. If possible make this report in writing and always take it directly to Management.

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