I was charged a hidden fee. Is this an unfair commercial practice?

What the Law Says

The Consumer Protection Act 2007 makes it illegal for businesses to engage in unfair commercial practices — including hiding fees that affect a consumer’s decision to buy.

A commercial practice is 'unfair' if it distorts or is likely to distort the average consumer’s economic behaviour — for example, by omitting key information like mandatory fees. The law requires traders to give clear, upfront pricing so consumers can make informed choices.

Hidden fees — such as booking fees, service charges, or admin costs added at checkout without prior notice — breach this duty. The law treats such omissions as misleading actions or omissions, especially when they prevent consumers from understanding the true cost.

Enforcement is carried out by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC). Breaching section 42 is a criminal offence, punishable by fines up to €10,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 5 years on conviction on indictment.

Statutory Text

A commercial practice is unfair if— (a) it is contrary to the requirements of professional diligence, and (b) it materially distorts or is likely to materially distort the economic behaviour with regard to the product of the average consumer whom it reaches or to whom it is addressed or of the average member of the group of consumers whom it reaches or to whom it is addressed.

— Consumer Protection Act 2007, s. 42 — Unfair commercial practices

What to Do

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