News Releases

Media Bulletin - Manitoba

December 22, 2017

Consumer Protection Office Reminds Manitobans to be Aware of Warranty Rights and Return Policies This Holiday Season



The Consumer Protection Office encourages Manitobans to be aware of warranty rights and be attentive to return policies related to their purchases this holiday season.

It is important to review warranty and return policies while trying to find the perfect holiday gift or a great Boxing Day deal.  Stores set their own policies on returns, refunds, and how long you have to return an item.  Be aware of any special terms and conditions that may apply around the holiday season.  All salesshould be considered final unless a store’s refund and exchange policy says otherwise.

It is good practice to keep receipts as proof of purchase and as a written reminder of a store’s return or exchange policy.  If a store offers returns, take an item back to the place of purchase within the return period stated on the receipt.  Consumers may be offered the option to exchange the item, or to take a refund in the same form as the original payment or a store credit.  Some sellers may charge a restocking or service fee when issuing a refund.

Warranties exist to support consumers when a good or service fails to meet reasonable expectations. In Manitoba, the seller is responsible for all duties, liabilities, obligations and warranties applicable to purchased goods or services.  This means that if an item needs to be repaired or replaced under warranty, the seller is responsible for shipping costs or other incidental expenses.  Consumers must receive a written record of all repairs or replacements made under a warranty.

More expensive items such as electronics and appliances often come with full or limited warranties.  Consumers should read the warranty carefully, focusing on what is covered and for how long.  For an extra fee, retailers often sell optional extended warranties to increase the warranty coverage period, broaden the number of defects covered, or include repair costs.  Before deciding to purchase an extended warranty, always ask the retailer for details of the manufacturer’s warranty that comes with the product.

The Consumer Protection Office administers Manitoba’s consumer protection legislation and hears, mediates and investigates consumer-related complaints.  For more information about consumer rights related to warranties, returns and exchanges, visit https://www.gov.mb.ca/consumerinfo/index.html#shopping.

Manitobans are encouraged to learn more about consumer protection issues and their rights under the law.  Download the free Consumer Protection mobile app from Google Play or the Apple App store or contact the Consumer Protection Office at 204-945-3800, at 1-800-782-0067 (toll-free in Manitoba), via email at consumers@gov.mb.ca or visit https://www.gov.mb.ca/consumerinfo/index.html.