Q: A couple of months ago, we ordered a kitchen from a local supplier, which will be delivered in the coming weeks.

We’ve already paid a 25 per cent deposit upon placing the order. The problem is that the seller wants us to pay the outstanding balance upon delivery not upon installation.

We are requesting that at least 10 per cent of the remaining balance is paid after the kitchen is installed. The reason being that the installation will not be done on the same day of the delivery but a couple of days later.

When we suggested paying the full amount after installation, the salesperson told us that the payment methodology is a company policy.

Can we refuse to pay the full balance before the installation of the kitchen is carried out?

A: Payment conditions need to be negotiated with the seller before concluding a sale, not afterwards. It is true that most traders have their own policies with regards to payment, but consumers have the power to negotiate and, where necessary, change the payment terms if they are not acceptable to them.

If the seller refuses to accept the proposed amendments, then consumers may shop around for better payment terms and conditions.

Since, in your particular case, you have already placed the order and made the deposit, in such a situation you will have to refer to the sales agreement you signed.

If your contract stipulates that you have to affect full payment upon delivery, then you have to adhere to the sales contract you agreed with.