Washing Machine & Mastercare

[pinkpetal]

Hi

Family friend has a washing machine purchased from currys. It is 3 years old and has broken down, she took out extended warranty from mastercare.

4 weeks on machine is not fixed and probably wont be for another week.

Any ideas, everytime she phones, she gets told the parts are in then when she chases again is told that they are still waiting for the parts.

What is the best way to play this

THanks

[gyzmo]

This is a common problem with services. Think about anyone you know who has had their car in for repairs and how long it was in for.

Firstly, your friend needs to check the terms and conditions of the warranty to see if there are any provisions relating to time of service, and for any relation to some sort of compensation or alternative action (such as providing a replacement).

If there is nothing there, then I think it may be a case of relying on common law. There is a duty to carry out any service with care and skill in statute, and this comes from case law in tort.

Your friend may be able to seek damages for loss of use and enjoyment, but that would be a long and hard process (as well as the expense). It is however something worth considering and taking further advice on.

A polite, but firmly worded letter would not go amiss. Seek advice from Consumer Direct or your local CAB. take along any documents you have and details of calls, concersations, letters etc for more specific advice to the circumstances.

Do let us know how your friend gets on.

[ForestChav]

Normally six weeks with Mastercare. It is with PCs, anyway. Washing machines may differ, but the policy will say.