Q: We bought a polo shirt from a clothing shop and when we returned home we noticed that the sewing on the left and right shoulders did not match. We took the item back and the shop assistant gave us a credit note, explaining that we needed to use it within the next two weeks or else we would lose our money.

Is it legal to provide a two-week credit note in this situation? It is not our fault that the shirt was damaged and that they did not have another one to replace it with. What are our rights?

A: Since you returned the polo shirt because it was defective and not because you changed your mind about the purchase made, legally you were entitled to a new, undamaged one. If replacement was not possible, then you were entitled to a cash refund.

If the seller is refusing to provide you with one of these remedies, you may file a complaint with the Office for Consumer Affairs.

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