The goods don't match the description. Can I reject them?

What the Law Says

The Consumer Rights Act 2022 gives you clear rights when goods do not match their description. Section 20 sets out that goods must conform to the contract — including matching any description given by the trader.

Under Irish law, when you buy goods, they must match the description provided by the seller — whether in writing, online, on packaging, or verbally. If they don’t, this is a breach of contract and you have legal remedies.

Section 20 of the Consumer Rights Act 2022 says the goods must be as described — meaning their quality, features, and purpose must align with what was promised. This applies to all consumer purchases, whether online, in-store, or by phone.

You have a short-term right to reject the goods within 30 days of receiving them — and get a full refund — if they fail to match the description. After 30 days, you may still be entitled to repair, replacement, price reduction, or final rejection depending on the circumstances.

Statutory Text

The goods must conform to the contract, including as to description, quality, fitness for purpose and sample.

— Consumer Rights Act 2022, s. 20 — Conformity of goods

What to Do

Sources