The Service must be provided or a refund or equivalent can be requested?

Question

In a situation where a service is being provided is it true that if the service cannot be provided because of problems at the providers end they must provide an equivalent service or a refund? If so what laws say this(references to UK laws only)?

Services as in Internet or something with a subscription.

Answer 1

Yes.

Consumer Protection Act 1987

When you buy a service - perhaps from a travel agent, garage, hairdresser or builder - you are entitled to certain standards:

* With reasonable care and skill - a job should be done to a proper standard of workmanship. If a plumber installs central heating, it should not leak
* Within a reasonable time - even if you haven't agreed to a definite completion date with the supplier of the service
* A reasonable charge - if no price has been fixed in advance. Always ask a trader how much a particular job will cost.

Be aware: when materials like bricks or wallpaper are used, or the service involves fitting goods such as radiators or bathroom fittings, the materials and goods are covered by the same statutory rights as when you buy them directly.

Tip: check out whether the supplier of the service is a member of a trade association. Membership doesn't guarantee satisfactory work, but if anything goes wrong it could make it easier to get things put right.

Contact Consumer Direct if you have a complaint, or would like further advice.

Answer 2

I would imagine the service receiver has a choice of remedies.

Is this a commercial contract or consumer contract? What sort of services? To whom? etc., etc.