When buying something for the school....

[Theblacksheep]

when buying for the school and the equipment is faulty (say a computer) is the responsibility with the seller, like consumer law? is it different for business?

 

several times we've been passed straight onto the manufacturer, for instance after 30 days and to jump through their hoops.

 

any advice?

[pcstru]

I believe the law is essentially the same - although consumers are offered some extra protection in terms of backing out of agreements. The key is that your contract is with the seller. However, it is more than likely quite reasonable for them to pass you to the manufacturer. If the manufacturer fails to remedy the situation, then you still have recourse against the supplier.

[witch]

see here: Citizens Advice - Consumer protection for businesses

It seems that a business to business contract can negate consumer rights as long as it is stated in the contract.

[teejay]

It depends on the contract agreement used by the supplier at time of purchase. The agreement may have exclusion clauses limiting your rights, if it doesn't then to a certain extent consumer law applies, if it does then you may have a claim under Unfair Contacts Law.

So basically push it with the supplier and if they won't budge then you either write it off as a bad experience and don't buy from them again, or get lawyers involved which obviously has cost implications.

[GeekyPete]

The buisness to buisness has resellers/Wholesalers in mind. The school is a consumer.

 

If the goods are faulty or not fit for a stated purpose the sale of goods act still applies. It is the reponsibility of the vendor. With that said, all the vendor ends up doing as acting a a go-between. It often easier to go straight to the manufaturer.

[Hefferzzzz]

The buisness to buisness has resellers/Wholesalers in mind. The school is a consumer.

 

If the goods are faulty or not fit for a stated purpose the sale of goods act still applies. It is the reponsibility of the vendor. With that said, all the vendor ends up doing as acting a a go-between. It often easier to go straight to the manufaturer.

 

I dont this is correct. A consumer is a private individual. Business to Business would be a reseller to a school. The manufactureres often place strict trading restrictions on companies when it comes to repair/replacement. Its different to consumer rights and most retail stores will bend over backwards to stop a customer moaning and complaining.

[Andrew_C]

The school isn't a consumer. It all depends on your contract. (You did read their T&Cs didn't you?)