Faulty Goods: Your Quick Guide to Rights and Remedies

Buying a product that doesn’t work right is frustrating. You’ve spent money, time, and trust on something that should have been fine. The good news? Indian law gives you clear tools to fight back. This guide shows you the basics, so you can act fast and get the relief you deserve.

Know Your Rights When You Get Faulty Goods

The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) treats a faulty product as a "defect" that the seller must fix. If the item is not of the promised quality, you can ask for a repair, replacement, or a refund. You don’t need a lawyer to start – a simple written complaint works for most cases.

Timing matters. The CPA sets a two‑year window from the date of purchase to raise a claim for a manufacturing defect. For hidden defects that appear later, the two‑year period starts when you first notice the problem. Keep the original invoice, warranty card, and any communication with the seller – they are essential proof.

When you contact the seller, be clear: state the product name, purchase date, what’s wrong, and what you want (repair, replace, or refund). Most reputable sellers will resolve the issue within 15‑30 days to avoid escalation.

How to Take Legal Action Against Faulty Goods

If the seller ignores you or refuses a fair solution, you can move to a consumer forum. File a complaint online at the National Consumer Helpline or visit the nearest District Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. The filing fee is modest – usually a few hundred rupees based on the claim amount.

Prepare a concise complaint: include your details, seller’s details, product description, defect explanation, and copies of all supporting documents. Attach an affidavit if you want to strengthen your claim. The forum will issue a notice to the seller, who then has 30 days to respond.

During the hearing, you’ll be asked to present evidence – invoices, photos of the defect, and any repair estimates you obtained. The judge will decide whether to order a repair, replacement, or full refund, plus any compensation for inconvenience.

Most cases settle before a formal judgment, especially if the seller sees the risk of a higher penalty. Even if you go to court, the process is designed to be quick and inexpensive compared to regular civil suits.

Remember, you’re not alone. Consumer rights groups, local legal aid clinics, and even the online consumer forums can guide you through the paperwork. A few extra minutes now can save you months of hassle later.

Bottom line: get your receipt, write a clear complaint, and use the Consumer Protection Act to push for a repair, replacement, or refund. Faulty goods happen, but the law is on your side – use it wisely and get back what you paid for.