SingaporeThe goods I received are not of satisfactory quality. What standard applies?
Under Singapore law, goods must be of 'satisfactory quality', meaning they must meet the standard a reasonable person would regard as acceptable, taking into account price, description, and other relevant factors.
What the Law Says
The Sale of Goods Act sets out the legal standard for when goods are considered to be of satisfactory quality — a key implied term in every sale contract unless expressly excluded.
In Singapore, the Sale of Goods Act (Cap. 393, 1999 Rev Ed) implies a term that goods sold in the course of business must be of 'satisfactory quality'. This is an automatic protection for buyers — no need to negotiate or write it into the contract.
Satisfactory quality means the goods must meet the standard a reasonable person would regard as acceptable, considering the price, description, and all other relevant circumstances. It covers aspects like fitness for purpose, safety, durability, appearance, finish, freedom from minor defects, and proper installation (if applicable).
This standard applies only when the seller is acting in the course of business — not for private, one-off sales between individuals.
Statutory TextWhere the seller sells goods in the course of a business, there is an implied term that the goods supplied under the contract are of satisfactory quality.
— Sale of Goods Act, s. 14 — Implied terms about quality or fitness
What to Do
Check whether the seller was acting 'in the course of business' (e.g., a shop, online retailer, or registered business).
Assess whether the defect affects what a reasonable person would expect, given the price and description of the goods.
Contact the seller promptly to request a repair, replacement, refund, or price reduction.
If unresolved, file a claim with the Small Claims Tribunals (for claims up to S$20,000, or S$30,000 if both parties agree).
Sources
Same Question, Other Jurisdictions
Ireland
UKNot 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.