Q: I’ve had my living room carpet dry cleaned. When it was delivered to my house, I noticed it was in a worse state than when it was sent for cleaning.

It was filthy, dusty and not fluffy anymore. I immediately complained with the dry cleaning company and they collected the carpet to try and clean it once again.

Even after the second cleaning, the carpet came back in an even worse state. I complained again and since the carpet is practically ruined, I’ve asked for compensation. This carpet was only purchased two years ago for €1,000. What are my legal rights?

A: If the carpet was ruined by the dry cleaners and can no longer be used, you are legally right to claim monetary compensation.

As to the amount of compensation, one usually takes into consideration how much the damaged product was bought and its wear and tear over the years.

If you still have the receipt, you may present it with your claim as proof of how much you paid for it.

Should you not manage to reach an amicable understanding with the dry cleaning company, you may then file a complaint with the Office for Consumer Affairs.