Finance glossary
Consumer Rights Act — 2015
Also known as: CRA 2015, Consumer Rights Act 2015
In simple terms
The Consumer Rights Act sets your basic rights when you buy goods, services or digital content — they must be as described, fit for purpose and of satisfactory quality.
On this page
What does the Consumer Rights Act mean?
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 is the main law covering what you are entitled to when you buy goods, services or digital content from a business. It requires them to be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described.
It also tackles unfair terms in consumer contracts.
How the Consumer Rights Act works
If goods are faulty, you generally have a short-term right to reject them for a full refund within 30 days. After that, you may be entitled to a repair or replacement, and a further refund if that fails. Services must be carried out with reasonable care and skill.
Unfair or hidden contract terms may not be enforceable against you.
How could this affect me?
These rights are your first line of defence when a purchase goes wrong — often more direct than an insurer or card provider. For financial products the picture is more complex, but the Act still shapes fairness in consumer contracts.
For card purchases, you may combine these rights with chargeback or Section 75.
Things to watch out for
- The 30-day right to reject applies to faulty goods — act quickly.
- Financial products have extra, specific rules on top of the Act.
- Keep proof of purchase to enforce your rights.
Know your rights
- The Consumer Rights Act 2015 requires goods and services to be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described, with rights to reject, repair, replacement or refund.
- Unfair terms in consumer contracts may be unenforceable; disputes over financial firms can go to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
General information, not personal advice
Consumer Credit is an independent information service. We do not provide regulated financial advice or sell financial products. For advice on your own situation, speak to an appropriately authorised firm or a free service such as MoneyHelper. About Consumer Credit.
Sources
We checked this page against these official and authoritative sources.
- legislation.gov.uk, Consumer Rights Act 2015 (opens in a new tab). Accessed 22 Aug 2026.