Right of Withdrawal for Distance Contracts in Rijswijk
As a resident of Rijswijk, you are entitled to the right of withdrawal for distance contracts. This allows you to cancel your purchase within 14 days of receiving a product or the start of a service, without providing a reason. Perfect for online or telephone purchases made outside a physical store, and fully applicable in our region.
Legal Basis for Consumers in Rijswijk
This protection is set out in the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 6, Title 5.5.2 (Articles 6:230j to 6:230u DCC), based on EU Directive 2011/83/EU. The key provision is Article 6:230m DCC, which provides a cooling-off period of 14 days. Online shops must provide clear information upfront, including a withdrawal form (Art. 6:230n DCC). You can get free advice on these rules at the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
For services, the period starts on the date of the agreement, but if you explicitly consented to early performance, the right lapses (Art. 6:230o DCC).
The Right of Withdrawal Step by Step
The period begins upon delivery of the product (or the last item if multiple). For services, upon signing. No reason is required—just notification suffices.
- Check the seller's packaging insert for withdrawal information and the model form.
- Send your cancellation within 14 days, preferably by email, post, or the standard form.
- Return the product within 14 days in good condition (Art. 6:230q DCC).
- The seller must refund everything within 14 days, including shipping costs (Art. 6:230r DCC).
If the seller fails to provide proper information? Then you get 12 months plus 14 days cooling-off period.
Rights and Obligations in Rijswijk
Your rights:
- Cancel without explanation.
- Full refund including VAT and standard shipping costs.
- No additional costs, except your return shipping (unless offered free).
Your obligations:
- Return in good condition; minor inspection marks are fine.
- Pay return shipping costs, unless otherwise agreed.
Seller's obligations:
- Provide withdrawal information.
- Collect or provide a label for specific products.
Right of Withdrawal vs. In-Store Purchases in Rijswijk
| Aspect | Distance Contract | Physical Store |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling-off Period | 14 days | No statutory right |
| Reason Required? | No | Often yes (store policy) |
| Return Shipping | Your responsibility (standard) | Often free |
| Legal Basis | Art. 6:230m DCC | No specific right |
Exceptions for Residents of Rijswijk
Certain products/services are excluded (Art. 6:230p DCC):
- Hygiene items: underwear, makeup (seal broken).
- Custom-made: personalized clothing or furniture.
- Perishable: meat, flowers.
- Urgent services: car repairs.
- Digital: downloads started immediately.
- Travel/tickets: flights, hotels.
Practical Examples
Example 1: You order a sweater from Rijswijk (€60 incl. €7 shipping). Not happy after 8 days? Return it with the form; seller refunds €60, you pay return shipping (€7).
Example 2: Started an online course immediately? Withdrawal right lapses if you consented.
Example 3: No withdrawal info provided? 12 months + 14 days cooling-off period.
Learn more about online shopping.
FAQs for Rijswijk Residents
Defective product—can I withdraw?
No, use non-conformity rules (Art. 7:17 DCC) for repair/replacement under warranty.
Return shipping costs?
You pay, unless seller provides free label or wrong delivery.
Not getting a refund?
Demand in writing. No response? Contact ACM ConsuWijzer, District Court Rijswijk, or Dispute Committee. Keep proof.
Marktplaats?
No, not for private sellers; check terms for professionals.
Tips for Shoppers in Rijswijk
- Check terms and withdrawal info before buying.
- Download the model form from Rijksoverheid.nl.
- Take photos when returning.
- Keep proof and invoice for at least 1 year.
- For advice: Juridisch Loket Rijswijk or Municipality of Rijswijk.