WHEN SHOPPING, READ THE FINE PRINT

NO MATTER WHAT YOU PURCHASE - READ THE FINE PRINT! With advertisements campaigns in full swing, incentives such as discounts, rebates, prizes, delayed payment options and rebates being offered, the Consumer Affairs Commission is not surprized by the increase in consumer spending
We take this opportunity to remind all consumers however to exercise caution and read the fine print before committing to any purchase agreement.

Cellular Phones and Services
In a lot of cases cell phone purchases are linked to the purchase of cell phone services. Each bearing their own terms and conditions, which speak to : access, calling rates, features, repair policies and warrenty.
Customers must therefore inform themselves of the conditions that apply, especially as it relates to loaner phones and redress (repair, replacement or refund). Additionally, consumers should note that loaner phones are not a must and is dependent on availability and whether or not the merchant offers this option.

Professional Services
Another trend we have noticed this Christmas is an increase in the use of direct selling, where servicemen go from house to house issuing flyers, business cards, and deals in an attempt to encourage patronage.
This is certainly an effective form of advertising, both in terms of the cost as well as access to customers.
While there is nothing wrong with this approach, there is need for caution. Approach it as if you were making any other form of purchase or transaction.

Quack or Plumber
One complainant reaching our offices, involved a plumber who was contracted to fix a leak in an other wise working water heater. After he was finished, it appeared that the leak was fixed, at least temporarily, but the heater no longer heated the water.
Several phone calls later, including calls to the police to assist with redress another plumber was contacted for a professional opinion. It appears that there had been electrical damage to the water heater allegedly caused by the shoddy work of the first plumber. Leaving the customer with what could amount to thousands of dollars in expenses on top of the $2,800.00 that was paid to fix the leak.
Our point: ensure that you check the reputation and skill levels of service persons before you part with your monies.

Do your Research
While the Consumer Affairs Commission supports the free market process and a person’s right to earn a living, foremost among our objectives is the provision of excellent customer service by professionals and merchants alike.
For us, a job well done and the provision of clear information regarding warranty, repairs and refunds are key characteristics in our definition of professional services.
To this end we continue to inform members of the public of their rights and responsibilities as consumers. Before you contract the services of someone or make any purchase do your research. Ask for references, do background checks, ask about certification and qualification.
Ask for a written contract that clearly outlines the terms of warranty and service obligations on the part of the vendor or professional before contracting his/her services or before making a purchase, and always read the fine print!

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