This week we have received two enquiries from consumers who have bought from other hot tub companies and are struggling to receive news on when their delivery will arrive and also worried about losing their deposit, if they cancel the order.
This is not the first time we have received these types of calls from consumers who don’t know which way to turn when these companies let them down.
When facing these type of issues (and we are very sorry for those who have), we suggest two points of contact to call that are both FREE and have the advice you need on your consumer rights, who will point you in the right direction to resolve your purchasing issues.
1, Trading Standards in your area or the area of the supplier
2, BISHTA (The British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association) www.bishta.co.uk
Both parties are committed to protecting the consumer and challenging the practice of rogue traders plus their services are FREE, which after already losing money on a deposit or other expenses is welcome news. Subject to whether the current Consumer Rights Act was in place, you may have redress from the supplier and depending on whether you purchased the hot tub by credit card, it may be worth contacting your credit card supplier to make a complaint and to see if they will refund you.
BISHTA are the main body for the spa and hot tub industry and they promote industry Standards (regarding a number of topics, including safe water hygiene advice) and require members to abide by a Code of Ethics in their business practices.
Unfortunately, the above (and previous incidents) that I have mentioned are due to companies not in BISHTA membership, but BISHTA will still offer advice to help protect you as the consumer.
Non-BISHTA members are still roaming the internet, high streets and garden centres, so please look out for the BISHTA logo when sourcing a reputable hot tub supplier to provide a hot tub for your home or business. This will ensure that you receive the quality and service that you are paying for and safeguards you against dangerous cheap imitation products and scam dealers.
All BISHTA members will be permitted to feature the BISHTA logo so it should be clear to see. You can also call the BISHTA office (01264 356211) or check www.bishta.co.uk to make sure that they are a current member of BISHTA.
A consumer needs trade bodies such as ABTA for travel, BMA for medicine and BISHTA are here to help ensure that purchasing your hot tub is the pleasurable and smooth experience that it should be.
