Q: I have ordered two roller blinds which had to be delivered to me within four weeks from the order date. Upon my order I paid a €100 deposit. Until today, eight weeks later, the blinds are not ready. When I call the seller to check when they will be delivered, they either do not answer my calls or tell me that they will call me when the blinds are ready.

I would like to know my rights in such a situation.

A: The Consumer Rights Regulations stipulate that when consumers order goods from traders, the goods must be delivered either on the agreed delivery date or within 30 days from the date of order. When the delivery is not carried out within these time frames, as a consumer you need to write to the trader and request that the goods ordered are delivered by a specific reasonable date. Such correspondence is best sent by registered post.

If, after sending the letter, the seller informs you that he is unable to meet the new delivery date, then if you wish you may opt to cancel the order of the blinds and claim a full refund of the deposit paid. Should the seller refuse to refund you the deposit, then you may lodge a complaint with the Office for Consumer Affairs.

Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority
Office for Consumer Affairs
Mizzi House,
National Road,
Blata l-Bajda
HMR 9010

Freephone: 8007 4400
Tel: 2395 2000
Enquiries: info@mccaa.org.mt
Consumer complaints: fair.trading@mccaa.org.mt
Website: www.mccaa.org.mt

MCCAA office hours for the public:
Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 12.30pm

European Consumer Centre Malta
(For complaints against traders in other EU states)

47A, South Street,
Valletta.
VLT 1101

Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 3pm.

Tel: 2122 1901
E-mail: ecc.malta@gov.mt

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