When making distance purchases, such as via the internet or telephone, you have a right to a 14-day cooling-off period in Rijswijk. This means that you can return the product without giving a reason and get your money back. This is called the right of withdrawal.
When does the cooling-off period apply?
The 14-day cooling-off period applies to:
- Online purchases via webshops
- Telephone orders
- Door-to-door sales (canvassing)
- Sales at events or markets (in certain cases)
Start of the cooling-off period
- Physical products: the period starts on the day you receive the product
- Services: from the moment the agreement is concluded
- Digital downloads: from the day of purchase
How can you exercise the right of withdrawal?
Within the 14 days, you must inform the seller that you wish to cancel the purchase. This can be done by:
- Filling out the webshop's return form
- Sending a written notice (for example, by e-mail or post)
After this notification, you have another 14 days to actually return the product.
Exceptions to the right of withdrawal
In some situations, there is no cooling-off period, such as for:
- Products that perish quickly (for example, foodstuffs or plants)
- Sealed goods that are not returnable after opening (such as software or hygiene products)
- Products specifically made for you
- Individual editions of newspapers or magazines
- Travel and transport tickets
- Tickets for concerts or events
Who pays what?
The seller is obliged to refund both the purchase price and the original shipping costs (outbound). However, the costs for returning the product are often at the consumer's expense, unless the seller states otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Right of Withdrawal in Rijswijk
What does my right to return entail?
For purchases via the internet, you have 14 days to return without reason, provided the product does not fall under the exceptions.
How long is the legal warranty period set?
Products must function for at least 2 years. If a defect occurs within 6 months, it is presumed to have been present at the time of purchase.
Can I claim interest on outstanding amounts?
Yes, you can claim statutory interest (approximately 8% per year) on an outstanding debt.
What to do in case of misleading commercial practices?
You can file a complaint with the Consumentenbond, a government authority, or take legal action via the District Court of The Hague.
What does a credit agreement entail?
A credit agreement specifies how you borrow money, what interest rate applies, and how you repay it.
Additional Information and Assistance in Rijswijk
For legal questions or support in disputes regarding the right of withdrawal, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk. In complex cases, a matter can be submitted to the District Court of The Hague, the district under which Rijswijk falls.
Frequently Asked Questions about Returns
How much time do I have to return an online order?
You have a 14-day cooling-off period from receipt of the product. Within this period, you must inform the seller of your return wish, for example via a form or e-mail. You then have another 14 days to return the product. Ensure timely and clear communication to safeguard your rights.
Is the original packaging required for a return?
It is advisable to keep the original packaging, as some sellers require this. Damage to the packaging may lead to a partial or refused refund. Always check the seller's specific conditions before unpacking the product.
Who is responsible for return shipping costs?
The seller refunds the original shipping costs, but the return costs are generally at the consumer's expense, unless otherwise stated in the webshop's terms and conditions. Therefore, read them carefully before purchasing.
May I return a product after use?
You may test a product as you would in a physical store, but with intensive use or damage, the seller may refuse or reduce the refund. For example: trying on clothing is allowed, but wearing it is not. Contact the seller if unsure.
What if the seller does not accept my return?
If your withdrawal is unjustly refused, submit a written complaint to the seller. If this does not help, you can turn to the Disputes Committee or the Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM). Always keep evidence such as correspondence and proof of purchase. For legal advice in Rijswijk, you can contact the Juridisch Loket.
Does the right of withdrawal apply to used goods?
In most cases, the right of withdrawal also applies to second-hand products purchased online, unless the seller explicitly excludes this in the terms and conditions.