A consumer can cancel an unsolicited consumer agreement within a 10-day 'cooling-off' period for any reason. In addition, they have the right to terminate the agreement within three months if the supplier did not comply with the obligations listed above. In some cases this period extends to six months. They can do this by notifying the supplier of their decision. This can be done orally, in writing, by email or fax. No special form is required.

Effects of termination

Termination ends the contract and any related contract such as a guarantee or indemnity. When an agreement has been terminated:

  • the business must return anything the consumer has paid or given under the agreement
  • the supplier must not seek any amount alleged to be due under the agreement or related contract, or place the consumer on a list of defaulters or debtors
  • the consumer must return the goods within a reasonable time or notify the supplier where they can be collected. Until collected, they must take reasonable care of the goods. If they do not, the business can recover compensation from them.