Can I claim compensation for faulty garden equipment like a lawnmower or hedge trimmer?

Yes. Garden and outdoor equipment, such as lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, strimmers and pressure washers, is covered by the Consumer Rights Act 2015 in the same way as any other goods. If a fault shows up within 30 days of delivery, you can reject it for a full refund. If it shows up within 6 months, the law presumes it was there from the start unless the retailer can show otherwise, and you can ask for a repair or replacement, then a price reduction or a final right to reject if that doesn't work. After 6 months you can still claim, but you'll need to show the fault was there at delivery rather than caused by wear, misuse or poor storage. In England and Wales you have up to 6 years to bring a claim. Garden equipment is often bought out of season, so the 30-day window can pass before you first use it, but the repair, replacement and refund rights still apply.

Can the retailer send me to the manufacturer instead of dealing with it themselves?

No. Your contract under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 is with the retailer you bought from, not the manufacturer. The retailer can't discharge that responsibility by pointing you to a manufacturer's warranty.

Does it make a difference if I paid by credit card?

For purchases between £100 and £30,000 made on a credit card, you may have an additional route against the card provider under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974, which makes them equally liable for a breach of contract by the retailer.

How much does it cost to bring a small claim for faulty goods?

Court fees are set on a sliding scale based on the amount claimed, starting from £35 for claims under £300 up to £455 for claims up to £10,000. If you win, the fee is normally added to the judgment.

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Faulty Goods and Garden Equipment Compensation: What You Can Claim Under UK Law

Compensation for faulty goods or garden equipment under the Consumer Rights Act 2015: when you can get a refund, repair or replacement, a…