In many supermarkets and stores, security personnel are not employed as in-house staff but are contracted through third-party security companies. This means they do not belong to the store’s staff and have no legal grounds to demand compensation from buyers for damaged goods. If a security guard insists on payment, such actions constitute a violation of current legislation.
This is reported by Finway
Legislative Nuances Regarding Liability for Goods
Experts from the “Consumer Rights Protection” organization emphasize that all issues regarding goods, including damaged ones, should be resolved exclusively with the store’s administration or its official employees. Damaged goods should not be available for sale at all, and the responsibility for their presence lies with the store, not the customer.
“Security personnel do not have the right to dictate what to do with the goods – often they do not represent the store itself. Demanding payment for damaged goods is a gross violation of the law. In such cases, it is necessary to contact law enforcement authorities.”
If a security guard continues to insist on payment, the customer is advised to request a review of the surveillance camera footage to confirm their innocence. However, even such actions do not always guarantee a resolution in favor of the consumer. If there is no result, the best course of action is to call the police.
Exchanging Goods: What Buyers Need to Know
The State Service for Food Safety and Consumer Protection reminds that supermarkets, stores, and other retail establishments are obliged to exchange non-food items, including those purchased at a promotional price. Refusal to exchange such goods, if they meet the established requirements, is considered a violation of the law.
- Goods can be exchanged within 14 days, excluding the day of purchase.
- If the seller establishes a longer period, exchanges are allowed throughout that time.
- Goods are eligible for exchange only if they have not been used and their commercial appearance, consumer properties, seals, labels, and the receipt issued at the time of purchase are preserved.
Customers should be aware of their rights and act in accordance with the law in case of conflict situations.