Computers and your rights
How does consumer law apply to computers and software?
How does consumer law apply to computers and software?
How does consumer law apply to computers and software? We get many calls from consumers – and retailers – wanting to know their rights.
Consumer law says:
Under the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA), goods must match their description. The retailer should pay for a new motherboard which can accept a better graphics card or, if this is impossible, provide a refund.
It depends on the type of problem, and whether parts need to be sent back to the manufacturer. Some retailers tell us they aim to fix problems within two days, but in our opinion two to three weeks is more likely. If you ask how long the repair will take you're entitled to rely on their answer. If they take longer than that time, you have rights under the CGA.
Yes. When a fault is serious or cannot be fixed within a reasonable time, you are entitled to a replacement or refund.
No. As long as a fault is sufficiently serious to warrant a refund, and you reported it promptly, the CGA requires that refund to be of the price paid.
In our opinion, if the repair is covered by the CGA and/or warranty then the customer should not be stung for the cost of freight within New Zealand. We consider freight to be a reasonably foreseeable consequential loss caused by a product fault, which the retailer is liable for. It is reasonably foreseeable that customers move towns.
However, this isn't an open chequebook. You should ensure you use the cheapest transport option available to you, and if you have moved overseas you won't have a case at all.
As long as you've identified the problem clearly and given them a reasonable chance to sort it out, you should get it looked at elsewhere. If a different service outlet finds the problem, you can claim the costs back from the original retailer.
Probably not. The CGA covers products ordinarily bought for domestic or personal use. These days there's not much difference between a home computer and a business one.
However, when goods are bought for commercial use the retailer has the right to contract out of the CGA (which they must do in writing at the time of purchase, for it to be effective). Most do. However, even if you're not covered by this Act, you may still have rights under the Contract and Commercial Law Act.
Wasted time and stress is frustrating, but under the CGA you can only claim compensation if you offered the trader the opportunity to fix the problem early on, and can also show an actual consequential loss in monetary terms.
Unfortunately "my time is valuable" doesn't usually count. Even if you use your computer for business and have lost clients or contracts because of downtime, the CGA won't entitle you to compensation, because this is a business issue outside the scope of the Act.
You can choose between a refund of the purchase price or a similar model of the same value. If you opt for a similar model costing more you'll have to pay the difference.
No. Consumers can't have their cake and eat it too!
The CGA is not limited by manufacturers' warranties. It says goods must work properly for a reasonable length of time. Ask the manufacturer or other traders for their estimate of a reasonable lifespan for your monitor, then - if yours should still be in the prime of life - make the case to your retailer for a free repair. You can also have a look at our Appliance life expectancy report to see what we think.
Neither the CGA, nor your warranty if you have one, will cover a fault occurring through "improper use" such as assault by toast. Your insurance company may help, depending on the type and wording of its policy.
Not usually. But the new part is subject to the CGA's requirement for goods to be durable, which takes into account their age.
All service providers have to use reasonable care and skill when fixing things. If you weren't warned that your files would be deleted, and can show monetary loss, the company should compensate you. However, you will probably find it very hard to prove your case, and most files like photos are priceless. Always back-up your important files before handing over your computer.
Retailers do not have to offer stand-ins during repair time. However, if you can prove that your laptop is essential for urgent assignments or exams, and is the only option available, we think you've got a good case for claiming back the costs of renting one. Remember to ask the retailer for a stand-in first.
You can try, but the retailer is under no obligation to replace or refund goods because of a change of mind. If you're not sure you're buying the right thing, find out first if you will be able to exchange it. Some stores may offer a trial period or exchange cards. But many don't accept returns of software at all.
Almost all software on the market can be patched. Patches help fix bugs, streamline the operation, and allow programs to cope with changing technology. However, if a piece of software is essentially unusable at purchase, we think you have the right to return it. Having already done the download, though, you may decide to stick with it. You're not due any compensation, unless you had to pay for the patch and were misled about whether you would need it.
It depends on the licence agreement. Most software products allow one or two users on a licence.
If the licence information isn't on the outside of the box, ask the retailer, or try the manufacturer's website.
Goods sold at auction are covered by the Consumer Guarantees Act and the Fair Trading Act (FTA). If the auctioneer told you the computer was virus-free, before you successfully bid for it, you're entitled to compensation.
Private sales are not covered by the CGA or FTA. But the Contractual Remedies Act gives protection against misrepresentation, so if you bought the computer because of this claim, you can seek compensation. If the seller refuses, take them to a Disputes Tribunal.
The Consumer Advice Line is available to all our members for support on any consumer-related issue. Our expert advisers can explain your rights and help you resolve problems. Become a member now from just $12 and we'll help you get a resolution.
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