The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA 2024) came into effect in April 2025, replacing the old Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. It strengthens consumer protections against misleading and aggressive trading practices and works alongside the Consumer Rights Act 2015 (CRA 2015).
This is an update from my 2021 guide to The Consumer Rights Act 2015 – the only change is the introduction of the DMCCA 2024.
Your Key Rights
Faulty Goods
- 30-Day Short-Term Right to Reject: Return faulty goods within 30 days for a full refund.
- Burden of proof:
* Within 30 days, you must prove the item is faulty.
* Between 30 days and 6 months: Faults discovered are presumed to have existed from the start.
* After 6 Months: You must prove the fault existed at the time of purchase. - Repair or Replacement: Retailers have one chance to fix the fault. If unsuccessful, you can demand a refund or replacement.
Goods must be:
- Satisfactory quality – free from defects
- Fit for purpose – suitable for your needs
- As described – match the description
- Durable – last a reasonable length of time
Services must be carried out with reasonable care and skill. This covers trades from plumbers and hairdressers to takeaways and restaurants.
Unfair Terms
- Consumer Rights Act 2015 includes a fairness test: unfair contract terms are not binding.
- The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 provides protection against misleading or aggressive practices that pressure you into decisions you wouldn’t otherwise make.
Other Protections
- Section 75 Consumer Credit Act 1974 provides joint liability for credit card purchases over £100.
- You don’t need a warranty; The Consumer Rights Act 2015 provide better coverage for free.
Takeaway
The DMCCA 2024 ensures that UK consumers have stronger legal protections than ever alongside the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
Your legal rights under UK consumer protection laws are stronger than any warranty.
Knowing them means you can confidently demand repairs, replacements, or refunds when goods or services don’t meet your expectations.
