This is a stronger consumer protection than many South Africans realise — a retailer's in-store policy cannot legally reduce this statutory right for defective goods, even if printed clearly on a receipt. Knowing the distinction between a store's discretionary returns policy and the CPA's non-negotiable warranty gives consumers real leverage when a retailer pushes back on a legitimate return.
Source: Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the six-month return right apply to any reason for returning a product, like simply changing your mind?
No — it specifically applies when goods are defective, unsafe, or don't meet the standard the CPA requires; a store's own goodwill policy governs returns for a simple change of mind.
Can a store refuse a return by pointing to a "no refunds" sign?
Not for a genuinely defective product within six months — the CPA's implied warranty overrides a store's own more restrictive policy in that situation.
What can a consumer do if a retailer refuses a legitimate defective-goods return?
They can escalate the complaint to the relevant industry ombud, such as the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud, or the National Consumer Commission.