In Zoetermeer, as a consumer in a consumer purchase, you enjoy additional rights when purchasing a product from a professional seller. This means you are entitled to a sound product and certain warranties that protect your interests.
When is there a Consumer Purchase?
According to article 7:5 of the Dutch Civil Code, there is a consumer purchase in Zoetermeer if:
- You as the buyer are a private individual (not a business)
- You purchase the product for personal use
- The seller is a professional business
Specific Protection for Consumers
As a consumer in Zoetermeer, you benefit from the following additional rights:
- Statutory warranty on the conformity of the product
- In case of defects within the first 12 months (previously 6 months), the burden of proof lies with the seller
- Unreasonable conditions in agreements may be declared null and void
- Right to repair or a new product in case of defects
No Consumer Purchase
If the purchase takes place between two private individuals or between businesses, these special rules do not apply to the consumer purchase. In that case, the standard rules for sale from the Dutch Civil Code apply.
Business Owner Purchasing Privately
If you as a business owner in Zoetermeer purchase a product for personal use, such as a television for home, this is also considered a consumer purchase. The purpose of the purchase is decisive, not your status as buyer.
Combined Use of Products
For products used both for business and private purposes, the main purpose of the purchase is considered. A laptop primarily used for private purposes falls under consumer purchase in Zoetermeer, even if it is occasionally used for work.
Frequently Asked Questions about Consumer Purchase in Zoetermeer
What are my rights regarding returns?
For online purchases, you have 14 days in Zoetermeer to return without reason, except for specific exceptions provided by law.
How long is the statutory warranty valid?
Products must function for at least 2 years. If a defect occurs within 6 months, it is presumed to have been present at delivery.
Can I claim interest on outstanding amounts?
Yes, in Zoetermeer you can claim statutory interest, currently around 8% per year, on the amount due.
What to do in case of misleading commercial practices?
You can file a complaint with organisations such as the Consumentenbond, government authorities or bring a case to court, such as the District Court of The Hague.
What does a credit agreement entail?
A credit agreement describes the conditions under which you borrow money, including the interest and repayment schedule.
Contact and Assistance in Zoetermeer
For legal advice on consumer purchases, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. In case of disputes, a case can be submitted to the District Court of The Hague, the district under which Zoetermeer falls.