Q: A few weeks ago I went to buy a new cooker and the salesperson tried to sell me an extended guarantee. I refused to pay for an extra guarantee but I am afraid I have fewer rights should a problem crop up. How are my rights affected without such a guarantee?

A: Buying an extended guarantee is purely at the consumers’ discretion. It does not, in any way, affect our legal rights. In fact, it provides protection when both the commercial guarantee and our statutory rights run out.

Regardless whether or not we purchase such a guarantee, the retailer is legally liable for any latent defect for two years from the date of delivery of the product purchased.

The retailer is also responsible in cases when the goods purchased are not in conformity with the contract of sale or the goods bought are not fit for the purpose for which they were bought.

Redress may be sought if these criteria are not met. Thus, for up to two years, we are well protected in case of defective or non-conforming products.

If we are asked to pay for an added protection, it is important we first evaluate the potential benefits of this extra cover. For instance, does this extended guarantee offer new for old or just repair?

Does the repair cover both labour and parts or only parts? Does it also cover misuse and possibly loss or theft? Our decision should also be based on the value of the product purchased.

Obviously, the more we spend on a product the more it is worthwhile to purchase further protection.