I bought a digital camera in Spain a couple of weeks ago - it has stopped working what should I do?

I bought a digital camera while on holiday in Spain a few weeks ago.  Now it has stopped working.  What should I do?

Answer

Most EU countries have implemented a EU directive, which gives consumers who buy goods rights for two years and for the first six months any defect is presumed to have existed at the time of delivery unless proved otherwise.  Spain is one of these countries.  This means you are entitled to ask for your camera to be repaired or replaced free of charge.  Also, if you paid with a UK credit card and the camera cost over £100, the credit card company may help.  It could be easier to try and get redress through them.  However, it is up to individual card issuers whether they decide to provide this consumer protection on overseas purchases, it is not an automatic right.

You will need a proof of purchase to pursue a claim – till receipt, credit card statement or confirmation of order will do.

• Contact the seller or the credit card company and explain what the problem is and what you want.
• Enclose copies of your proof of purchase and send the letters by recorded delivery – keeping a copy.
• If the seller or the credit card company do not respond, refuse to do anything or make a final offer you are unwilling to accept, you should get advice.

For more detailed advice on buying abroad, visit
www.euroconsumer.org.uk ,part of the UK European Consumer Centre, an online advice service for UK consumers with European consumer queried run by Citizens Advice.

Also for more information on consumer issues look in Legal Facts and Information section and or the hereforadvice Directory and use the site search.