Consumer rights: can I get a refund because of inconvenience?

Question

I booked up some ice skating courses and payed over the phone via debit card. I can't do it now because the transport I need to get to the centre (which is a long way away) is no longer available, and so it is almost impossible to get there. I've been told I can't have a refund. Is this true?

Answer 1

Depends on what you agreed to.  Did they tell you on the phone it was non-refundable?  Usually lack of transportation would not be a reason.  

Answer 2

Hello Ben12,

If you made the refund request within your 'Right of Rescission’, then the answer is yes. The Right of Rescission in the plurality of jurisdictions is 72 hours. Additionally, if you have any documentation that you received from the seller with regard to payments and refunds that indicate anything beyond the right of rescission you have grounds for that as well. Lastly, if had you purchased this with a credit card and the amount was over $50 and you live in the United States, you are protected. In the U.S., the issuing bank is also considered the seller and if goods are not delivered you have recourse against the issuing bank.

Answer 3

That's like buying a car over the internet and then complaining that you can't get there now to pick it up.  You're bound to the sales contract.  If the seller wants to let you out of it, that's their choice.

Poor planning and decision making on your part is not a valid reason to cancel the sales contract.

It's the price to pay for a valuable life lesson.

Answer 4

Nick H. answered this question in great detail.  However, you might also try an easier way first and speak with the manager, show him proof of the transport changes and perhaps he will consider your request due to hardship.  

Answer 5

A contract gives you certain rights, including the right to use the centre.  You have that right, although you may not have the desire any more.  If the contract allows for refunds, you can enforce it.  Otherwise, although you lack a legal leg to stand on, you can negotiate.  Many companies will willingly give a voluntary refund just to keep good will.  Some will not.   If the centre found that it was no longer convenient to offer the same services because of the train times, would you just accept it?  Of course not, because you had a deal.