Many consumers know about the warranties offered by retailers for popular goods like electronics and appliances, but in most cases, goods are already protected by warranties offered under Saskatchewan law.
It is important for consumers to understand how statutory warranties work so they can decide whether purchasing extra warranty coverage is worth it.
“People already tend to be pretty knowledgeable about additional warranties sold by retailers for things like computers and appliances,” Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority Director of Consumer Protection Division Eric Greene said. “We want to raise awareness about rights and protections already offered as statutory warranties.”
Statutory warranties are automatically offered when goods are purchased in Saskatchewan. The three most commonly asked about warranties relate to product description, durability and sale by samples.
The warranty relating to product description applies when a seller is describing a product through advertising. The product must match the description at the time of sale. For example, features, colour and attributes must be the same. If the ad displays a computer with a 500GB hard drive, it should come with a 500GB hard drive.
Durability warranties mean goods must be durable and fit for purpose for a reasonable period of time. For example, if you buy a fridge and it dies within a reasonable amount of time, consumers may still have protection under the legislation.
Matching warranties mean products demonstrated by a sample must match the quality and description of the larger order. This commonly applies to things like paint swatches, shingles or flooring samples.
Consumers should keep receipts, invoices and records of maintenance to help them make the case when exercising claims for their warranty rights.
To learn more about warranty rights visit www.fcaa.gov.sk.ca/warranties2015 or contact the Consumer Protection Division at [email protected] or toll free: 1-877-880-5550.
