Consumer rights - what you should know
Guarantee, warranty, right of return, settlement of disputes with consumers, consumer rights in online commerce
Warranty, right of return, settlement of disputes with consumers, consumer rights in online commerce
If you intend to sell goods or provide services to consumers (natural persons not engaged in business activities), you must respect their rights. Remember that in the event of any doubt or dispute, the consumer is considered to be the weaker party and is under special legal protection. Your business should be characterised by integrity, honesty and professional diligence in its dealings with consumers.
The importance that the state attaches to consumer rights is evidenced, among other things, by the fact that they are protected by the Constitution. It stipulates that public authorities protect consumers, users and tenants against activities that threaten their health, privacy and safety and against unfair market practices.
In relations with consumers, remember that:
- the consumer is treated in the law as the weaker party to the dispute
- the most important rights of consumers include the right to withdraw from the contract or the possibility to lodge a complaint about a defective product on the basis of a warranty
- contracts with consumers may not contain prohibited clauses.
- special institutions (e.g. Commercial Inspectorates) can help to resolve consumer disputes.
Have a look at:
- consumer regulations for entrepreneurs - UOKIK guide (PDF)
If you have any doubts, please contact the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection
The institution responsible for compliance with consumer law is the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection. On the website of the Office you will find detailed information on consumer regulations, obligations of the entrepreneur, product safety.