Cooling-off Period and Right of Withdrawal in Zoetermeer
As a resident of Zoetermeer, you have the right to the cooling-off period and right of withdrawal, also known as the right of withdrawal. This statutory right allows you to cancel a distance purchase within 14 days without giving a reason. This applies to online orders via webshops or purchases by phone. It prevents buyer's remorse and gives you time to inspect goods at home—handy for shoppers in the region.
What Does the Cooling-off Period and Right of Withdrawal Mean for Zoetermeer?
Under consumer law, the cooling-off period and right of withdrawal is essential for purchases without physical contact, such as webshops, home demonstrations, or phone orders. You get a 14-day cooling-off period to withdraw. If you cancel in time, the seller must refund your money, including shipping costs for delivery to your address in Zoetermeer.
The period starts upon receipt of the goods or conclusion of a service agreement. Crucially, the seller must inform you of this right in advance. If not, the period extends to 12 months plus 14 days. Residents of Zoetermeer can seek free advice on these rules at Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
Legal Basis
The provisions are set out in Book 6 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), articles 6:230m to 6:230p, based on EU Directive 2011/83/EU. The Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM) oversees compliance nationwide, but for local disputes, you can approach the Rechtbank Zoetermeer.
- Art. 6:230m BW: Right of withdrawal for distance sales.
- Art. 6:230o BW: 14-day period and seller's information obligation.
- Art. 6:230p BW: Refund within 14 days after withdrawal.
Exceptions (art. 6:230n BW) apply to custom-made or hygiene products, relevant for purchases from Zoetermeer.
When Does the Right of Withdrawal Apply in Zoetermeer?
Always for:
- Orders via webshops, popular among Zoetermeer residents.
- Purchases by phone or app.
- Sales at home or during local demonstrations.
- Orders from brochures or catalogs.
Not for:
- Purchases in physical stores in downtown Zoetermeer.
- Traditional auctions (but yes for online auctions).
- Custom-made items.
- Sealed hygiene products after opening.
| Situation | Right of Withdrawal? | Example for Zoetermeer |
|---|---|---|
| Online clothing via webshop | Yes | Order an outfit for a party in Zoetermeer and it doesn't fit? Withdraw within 14 days. |
| Purchase in local store | No | No statutory period; check the store's return policy. |
| Personalized product | No | Engraving with Zoetermeer motif: no cancellation. |
| Fresh food | Partial | Only the unopened portion is returnable. |
Rights and Obligations upon Withdrawal
Your Rights as a Zoetermeer Consumer
Withdraw freely without explanation. The seller must:
- Refund the full amount within 14 days.
- Reimburse outbound shipping costs.
- Arrange free pickup or provide a return label.
Your Obligations
Return the item in good condition: unused with packaging. Light inspection is allowed, but damage reduces the refund. Keep proof of delivery in Zoetermeer.
Practical Examples for Zoetermeer
Example 1: On October 1, you order a dining table online for €800 (€40 shipping) for your home in Zoetermeer. Received on October 5, you withdraw on October 15 by email. Seller refunds €800; return at their expense.
Example 2: Streaming subscription from October 1. Withdraw on October 10: immediate cancellation, no invoice.
Example 3: Opened shampoo: no withdrawal possible.
If ignored: send a reminder by email, then report to ACM or Disputes Committee. For legal action: Rechtbank Zoetermeer. Also read about refund or voucher.
Frequently Asked Questions
No withdrawal form received?
Yes, period extends to 12+14 days. Use ACM model letter via Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
Product used?
Inspection okay, excessive use leads to deduction. Take photos upon return.
Applies to gifts in Zoetermeer?
Yes, buyer withdraws as consumer.
Pay return costs yourself?
No, seller pays until receipt. Request free label.
Tips for Residents of Zoetermeer
Avoid hassle:
- Check terms before purchase.
- Download ACM form.
- Withdraw by registered mail or email with date.
- Photos of condition upon return.
- Disputes via Thuiswinkel Waarborg, Disputes Committee, or Rechtbank Zoetermeer.
- Free help at Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer or Gemeente Zoetermeer consumer desk.
More info: Consumer Law, Webshop Returns.
Unsure? Call Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer for personal advice.