Phones, broadband and TV: mobile phone handsets
When signing up for a mobile phone service, your contract is with the mobile operator.
But if you buy a mobile phone handset from a phone shop and it turns out to be faulty, under consumer law it's up to the shop to sort out your problem. In this situation your contract is with the shop - not the manufacturer or the mobile phone network.
Faulty phones
If the product is faulty you are entitled to a repair, replacement or a refund. If the shop offers to repair a faulty phone, the repair should be permanent. If they say the phone isn't repairable, you are entitled to a replacement or a refund.
If you are willing to let the shop repair the phone, you should confirm this in writing - but add the condition that if there are any other problems with the phone you reserve your right to reject it and claim a replacement or a full refund.
You should bring this statement to the attention of the seller and keep a copy of it in case you need to rely on it later should you take the matter to the Small Claims Court.
Insurance
Mobile phone insurance can be expensive. If you plan to buy mobile phone insurance, read the terms and conditions carefully.
Certain exemptions may apply, so ask what exactly the policy covers. Also check if an excess applies. This is the initial amount that you need to pay before the insurance company will pay for any loss or damage to your phone.
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