Don't let impulse buying this Bank Holiday leave you sitting out in the cold

As the bank holiday weekend approaches, Consumer Direct, the government advice service, is encouraging people to think carefully before buying furniture on impulse.

Carol Brady, Operations Manager for Consumer Direct explains: 'Buying furniture on impulse can be particularly troublesome. You'd be surprised how many people buy large items of furniture without first taking measurements. If you buy a sofa and then realise it won't fit through your front door you have no automatic right to a refund.'

Consumer Direct received almost 50,000 enquiries and complaints about furniture last year, accounting for 5 per cent of total recorded cases.

In order to help shoppers avoid some of the common pitfalls, Consumer Direct has put together the following tips:

Measure the dimensions in your home before you go out to make sure that whatever you are buying will fit in its intended space and through doorways.

If possible take a sample of the fabric home with you before you buy, as this will give you the opportunity to check that the fabric and colour is appropriate.

Check labels for cleaning instructions. Failing to adhere to these may limit your rights should a problem develop after cleaning the product incorrectly.

Ask lots of questions! Don't be afraid to clarify any concerns you may have such as the delivery date. If you have a specific request make sure it is expressed in writing on the order form. This will then be considered an express term of the contract.

For items costing over £100, you may want to consider paying by credit card as the credit card company may be equally liable if the goods are faulty or do not correspond with their description on delivery. You may also have similar rights against the finance company if the finance is arranged by the trader.

Remember that once you have signed a sale or finance agreement in the store, you will not have an automatic cooling off period. If you are verbally told you have one, make sure you check the terms and conditions of the contract.

Remember to inspect goods carefully when they are delivered. Under the Sale of Goods Act, your goods must be of satisfactory quality, as described and fit for purpose. If you find a fault on inspection bring it to the driver's attention immediately and note your concerns on the delivery note. If anything does go wrong it is the shop not the manufacturer that is responsible. Report any problems to the shop as soon as possible, and be prepared to put your complaints in writing.

For further advice contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506, or visit the website at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk.