Singapore

A vendor sold me goods that don't match the description. What are my rights?

s. 13
Relevant section
Full refund
Remedy available
No time limit
Rejection period
Cap. 393
Act number
The Short Answer

If goods you bought don’t match their description, you have the right to reject them and get a full refund, or claim damages — this is protected under section 13 of Singapore’s Sale of Goods Act.

What the Law Says

The Sale of Goods Act protects buyers when goods sold do not match how they were described.

Section 13 of the Sale of Goods Act states that when there is a contract for the sale of goods by description, there is an implied condition that the goods will correspond with that description. This applies whether the seller is a business or individual, and even if the buyer has examined the goods before buying — unless the examination should have revealed the discrepancy.

If the goods fail to match the description, this is a breach of an implied condition. As a result, you may treat the contract as repudiated — meaning you can reject the goods and demand a full refund. You may also choose to keep the goods and sue for damages instead.

Statutory Text

Where there is a contract for the sale of goods by description, there is an implied condition that the goods will correspond with the description.

Sale of Goods Act, s. 13 — Implied condition as to description

What to Do

1

Check your receipt, advertisement, website listing, or any written or spoken description provided by the seller.

2

Contact the seller promptly to explain the mismatch and request a refund or replacement.

3

If the seller refuses, send a written notice stating you are rejecting the goods due to breach of section 13.

4

Keep all evidence: photos, messages, receipts, and the original packaging if possible.

5

If unresolved, you may file a claim at the Small Claims Tribunal (for claims up to $20,000, or $30,000 if both parties agree).

Sources

Same Question, Other Jurisdictions

Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.