Q: A sales representative recently called me and asked me to a gather a few friends at my house and to prepare some refreshments and a working top for a demonstration on the use of certain household items.

After the demonstration, we were asked if we wanted to order any goods from the catalogue. I chose some items which amounted to around €500. At no point was I given information about whether the order made could be cancelled or not. I was just told that if I wanted to add anything else I had to inform the sales representative by the following day before she sends the order to Italy.

A couple of days later I contacted the sales representative to change some of the items ordered. She refused and told me that it was no longer possible to modify the order. I was very surprised to hear this, since whenever I buy something from a shop I almost always get at least a week to exchange it if I change my mind. Even when I buy online I can exchange or send items back for a refund.

Since the seller is refusing to modify my order can I refuse to take the items ordered? I was not asked to pay a deposit and did not sign anything. What are my rights?

A: Since the order of the goods was made from your home and not in a shop, this type of sale classifies as off-premises and is hence protected by the Consumer Rights Regulations. This means that, legally, you are entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period during which you can change your mind and cancel the sale.

The right to cancel the contract of sale is valid from the date of order up to 14 days after the goods ordered are delivered. During this time, you may opt to cancel the sale made or part of it. All you need to do to exercise this right is to write to the seller and inform her about your intention to cancel the order of the goods that you do not want.

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