Can I get sat-nav return postage refunded?

I bought a sat nav from a retailer over the internet on 30 November 2009.

I have sent it back faulty but I have had to pay £7 for return postage.

Can I get this back and does the retailer have the right to charge me again for sending a replacement?

David Cawthra

Mr Cawthra should be reimbursed the £7 for sending faulty goods back.

The retailer is not allowed to charge him for sending out a replacement. Of course, while these are your rights under the Sale of Goods Act (SoG), enforcing them is a huge problem.

Many retailers refuse to reimburse customers for the costs, despite the fact the SoG clearly states that consumers must not be out of pocket for returning faulty goods.

However, although it is possible to lodge a claim with the small claims court for £7, this is not really feasible.

While the law is on the consumer's side and they would probably win the case, there is no way of adequately enforcing the ruling.

Consumers who find themselves in this situation with a retailer should complain to their local Trading Standards office.

This will allow this organisation to gauge the scale of the problem and take action if needed.