Changed your mind about an in-store purchase

Were you a little too impulsive putting your signature on an order in-store? Did you receive something you ordered in perfect condition, but you don’t like it? That’s a bit of a problem.

No right of withdrawal

In principle, once you have bought a product or service in-store, you are not entitled to change your mind. Legally, you have no right of withdrawal.

Even though they are not legally obliged to do so, some sellers will allow you to exchange an article or give you the opportunity to ask for a refund. The seller is entitled to decide the exchange or refund method (cash or credit note).

Cancellation clause

Have you signed an order form with a deferred delivery date? Check whether the document includes a cancellation clause, which should give you the opportunity to terminate the contract, subject to specific conditions.

Sellers will usually impose a cancellation charge in line with:

• the deposit paid,
• a percentage of the total cost of the order,
• a previously defined amount, usually dependent on the time at which you terminate your contract.

Condition precedent

Do you intend to borrow money to finance a purchase? In such cases, you can ask to include a condition precedent in the order form. The contract will then only be valid provided that you actually receive credit from a financial institution.

Is your bank refusing to grant you a loan? In such cases, you can demand that the sale be cancelled. But ensure that you have proof of this refusal and submit it immediately to the seller.

Find out all there is to know about your right of withdrawal as a consumer when making a purchase online.