Most of us have had problems with faulty goods, dodgy tradesmen, or difficulties with debt - but we don't always deal with them very well. We might be conned into thinking we don't have rights when we do, or we're easily put off when we should stand firm. Sadly, thanks to rip off merchants, we sometimes even make things worse when we're trying to make things better.
Here we show you how to deal with some of the trickier areas - how you know if you even had a contract and what you can do to enforce it, how to ensure you're not being ripped off if you are considering claiming compensation, and what to do if you are struggling to deal with debts or have bailiffs at the door.
If you have a bailiff coming, despite what they might tell you, you do have rights. We show you what they are, what you should do at each stage (from the first letter to the last visit), and how to ensure you don't get ripped off...
When you can't juggle the bills and the weekly shop, it can be very tempting to put unopened bills in a drawer, but that's not a good idea. We show you how to grab the bull by the horns and deal with your debts, rent and mortgage...
In this guide we explain what identity theft is, what the risks are, and how you can avoid them. We also explain what to do if you do become a victim of identity theft.
...We all make agreements with other people every day. But not all of those agreements are legally binding contracts. This guide looks at what a contract is, what your rights are, how to end a contract and what to do if something...
If you have had an accident or had trouble getting repairs to your home, you may want to find out what chance you have of claiming compensation. We'll explain when it might be worth it, how to make a claim, and how to ensure you...
Problems downloading? Download help
Call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
Their regionally based advisors are specially trained to give practical advice on all kinds of consumer issues - from problems with cars to faulty household appliances.
We want to know a bit more about the people who use our site, to help us improve it. Can you spare a few minutes to tell us a bit about yourself in complete confidence? Take the survey here:Tell us about yourself!
Need help with a problem? Find advice services and solicitors near you who can help you solve your problem. Many people are able to get free help and advice.