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Introduction

Have you ever found yourself in the confusing situation of receiving something you didn’t order? Known as “unsolicited goods,” these unexpected items can be frustrating to deal with. In this guide, we’ll walk you through your rights and the steps to take when you receive unwanted items. If you need assistance, Consumerline can provide valuable advice if you’re in Northern Ireland, ensuring you understand your rights and how to effectively address any issues that arise.

Have you ever received something you didn’t order? It can be confusing and frustrating to get goods or services that you didn’t ask for, often referred to as “unsolicited goods.” If this happens to you, it’s important to know your rights and how to respond. Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate this situation.

How can I legally handle unsolicited goods I received?

What to Do When You Receive Unwanted Items

If you receive an item that you didn’t order, the first step is to inform the sender. You can do this by writing a letter. Below is a template to help you get started:

Sample Letter Template

“` [Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Postal Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]

[Date]

[Trader’s Name or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Trader’s Company Name]
[Trader’s Address]
[City, Postal Code]

Dear [Trader’s Name or “To Whom It May Concern”],

I am writing to inform you that I received an item from your company that I did not order. On [date you received the item], I received a [describe the item, e.g., “large ceramic plant pot, 24 inches in diameter”].

Please note that I did not request this item, and therefore it is considered unsolicited.

I am willing to keep the item available for you to collect at your expense within the next 14 days. After this period, I will consider the item as mine.

Please contact me to arrange for the collection.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Name] “`

Key Points to Remember

  1. Keep Records: Always keep a copy of your letter and any correspondence you have with the trader. This will be helpful if you need to refer back to it later.

  2. Contact Information: Make sure to include your contact information so the trader can easily reach you to arrange a pickup.

  3. Time Frame: You are giving the trader a reasonable amount of time (14 days) to collect the item. After this time, you can treat the item as yours.
Need help with what to do if the trader doesn’t respond within 14 days?
Consumer: Unwanted Parcel in the UK? Your Rights and Steps to Take

Need More Help?

If you’re unsure about what to do next or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You can try contacting Consumerline for guidance.

Receiving unsolicited goods can be a hassle, but knowing your rights and how to respond can make the situation easier to handle. Don’t let unwanted items stress you out—take action and resolve the issue!

For more info, check out some of our related articles:


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This material is for general information only and does not constitute
tax, legal or any other form of advice. You should not rely on any
information contained herein to make (or refrain from making) any
decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your
own particular situation. Contend Inc is not regulated by the
Solicitors Regulation Authority.