Right of Withdrawal for Distance Contracts in Zoetermeer
In Zoetermeer, as a consumer, you have the right of withdrawal for distance contracts. This means you can cancel the purchase without giving a reason within 14 days of receiving a product or the start of a service. Ideal for online orders, phone purchases, or other transactions outside stores in the Zoetermeer area.
Legal Basis for the Right of Withdrawal
This protection is set out in the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 6, Title 5.5.2 (articles 6:230j to 6:230u DCC), based on EU Directive 2011/83/EU. At its core is article 6:230m DCC, which provides a cooling-off period of at least 14 days. Webshops must provide clear information upfront, including a model withdrawal form (art. 6:230n DCC). In Zoetermeer, you can get free advice on these rules from Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
For services, the period runs from the date of the agreement, but if the service is fully delivered with your consent, the right lapses (art. 6:230o DCC).
Right of Withdrawal Step by Step
The period starts on receipt of the product (or last delivery for multiple items) and, for services, on signing. No reason is needed; a simple notification suffices.
- Check the seller's packaging insert for withdrawal information and model form.
- Send your cancellation within 14 days, preferably by email, post, or the standard form.
- Return the product within 14 days of notification in good condition (art. 6:230q DCC).
- The seller must refund everything within 14 days, including standard shipping costs (art. 6:230r DCC).
Did the seller fail to provide proper information? Then you get a 12-month plus 14-day cooling-off period.
Rights and Obligations in Zoetermeer
As a consumer in Zoetermeer:
- Cancel without costs or reason.
- Full refund including VAT and shipping.
- No extra costs, except your own return shipping (unless the seller offers a free option).
Your obligations:
- Return the item in good condition; reasonable inspection marks are fine.
- Pay your own return shipping costs, unless otherwise agreed.
Seller's obligations:
- Provide withdrawal information.
- Collect the item or provide a return label for suitable products.
Right of Withdrawal: Online vs. In-Store Shopping in Zoetermeer
| Aspect | Distance Contract | Store in Zoetermeer |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling-off period | 14 days | No statutory right |
| Reason needed? | No | Usually yes (store policy) |
| Return costs | For you (standard) | Often free |
| Legal basis | Art. 6:230m DCC | No fixed right |
Exceptions to the Right of Withdrawal in Practice
Some products and services are excluded (art. 6:230p DCC):
- Hygiene items: lingerie, makeup, earplugs after opening.
- Custom-made: engraved clothing, personalized furniture.
- Perishable: meat, flowers.
- Urgent services: car repairs.
- Digital: downloads if started immediately with consent.
- Travel/tickets: vacations, events.
Examples from Zoetermeer
Example 1: Ordered a jacket online for €60 (incl. €6 shipping) for winter in Zoetermeer. After 12 days, it's too small: send the model form, return it. Seller refunds €60; you pay €7 return shipping.
Example 2: Downloaded an e-book and started reading: no right of withdrawal.
Example 3: Shop without info: 12 months + 14 days cooling-off period. Get help from the Municipality of Zoetermeer or Juridisch Loket.
More about online shopping.
FAQs for Zoetermeer Residents
Defective product: can I withdraw?
No, that's warranty (art. 7:17 DCC): repair or replacement. Withdrawal is purely for the cooling-off period.
Who pays return costs?
You do, unless a free label is provided or it's the seller's error. Check the seller's policy.
Not getting a refund?
Send a formal demand in writing. Then contact ACM ConsuWijzer, the Disputes Committee, or the District Court of Zoetermeer. Start with Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer for advice.
Marketplace in Zoetermeer?
No for private sellers; yes for professionals. Check local terms.
Tips for Shoppers in Zoetermeer
- Always check terms before buying.
- Use the model form from Rijksoverheid.nl.
- Take photos when returning.
- Keep proofs and invoices for at least 1 year.
- Need free help? Visit Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer or check the Municipality of Zoetermeer website.