A seller says 'no returns on sale items'. Does this override my EU rights?

What the Law Says

EU consumer law gives you automatic, mandatory rights that businesses cannot cancel — even with signs, terms, or disclaimers.

Under the EU Consumer Sales and Guarantees Directive (1999/44/EC), all goods sold to consumers must be in conformity with the contract — meaning they must be fit for purpose, match their description, and be of satisfactory quality.

If goods are not in conformity, you have clear remedies: the right to have them repaired or replaced free of charge, a price reduction, or a full refund — depending on the situation and timing.

These rights apply for at least two years from delivery in all EU countries. National laws may extend this, but never shorten it.

Traders cannot waive these rights using notices like 'no returns on sale items', 'sold as seen', or 'no refunds'. Such terms are legally void.

Statutory Text

The seller must deliver goods to the consumer which are in conformity with the contract of sale.

— Directive 1999/44/EC, Art. 2(1) — Conformity of goods

Statutory Text

The seller shall be liable to the consumer for any lack of conformity which exists at the time the goods were delivered.

— Directive 1999/44/EC, Art. 3(1) — Liability for lack of conformity

Statutory Text

The consumer may require the seller to repair the goods or replace them… or, where appropriate, to reduce the price or rescind the contract.

— Directive 1999/44/EC, Art. 3(3) — Remedies

Sources