If I sign a delivery note and appliance turns out damaged can I still complain?
Do not sign any “received in good condition” declaration without first inspecting the appliance. If packaging cannot be removed, cross out the phrase and write “not checked” beside your signature. Remove packaging immediately after the driver leaves and report any damage to the retailer in writing the same day.
Delivery companies ask you to sign confirming goods were received in good condition. With a large appliance wrapped in protective packaging, that is impossible to verify at the time. Here is what to do and what your rights are if damage is discovered afterwards.
Do not sign or tick any box confirming the appliance is in good condition unless it has been properly inspected. If packaging cannot be removed, leave any “received in good condition” box unticked, or cross out that phrase and write “not checked” next to the signature.
Why Signing for Condition Is Unreliable
No delivery driver will wait while all transit packaging is removed and the appliance is carefully inspected. Yet the delivery form may ask for a signature confirming the goods arrived undamaged. Any such declaration made without a proper inspection is essentially meaningless – and can create difficulties if damage is discovered later.
Under the Consumer Rights Act, consumers are entitled to a “reasonable time” to examine new goods. Being presented with a fully packaged appliance and a form to sign does not constitute a reasonable opportunity to examine it. The legal position is therefore more nuanced than a signed delivery note suggests.
What to Do When the Appliance Arrives
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Do not tick or sign any declaration confirming good condition unless the appliance has been inspected.
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If a box for “received in good condition” is present, either leave it unticked or cross out the phrase and write “not checked” beside the signature.
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Remove all transit packaging as soon as the driver has left and inspect the appliance thoroughly.
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Report any damage as quickly as possible – ideally the same day. The sooner damage is reported, the stronger the position.
Some retailers send a confirmation email before delivery stating that the appliance must be inspected and any damage reported while the driver is still present. In practice, delivery drivers typically refuse to wait while transit packaging is removed. This creates an impossible situation that is not the customer’s fault – and should not weaken a valid damage claim. Remove the packaging immediately after the driver leaves and report any damage without delay.
What if You Already Signed Confirming Good Condition?
Signing a delivery note that included a “received in good condition” statement is not ideal, but it should not automatically end a valid damage claim. A packaged appliance cannot reasonably be inspected at the door, and a retailer or delivery company should not be able to dismiss a damage claim solely because of a signature taken before inspection was possible.
It does give the retailer an opportunity to dispute the claim, so the sooner damage is reported after signing, the better. Report it in writing and keep a record of all communications.
What if the Appliance Is Found to Be Damaged?
If damage is discovered on unpacking, the appliance can be rejected for a full refund, or a repair can be requested. Report the damage in writing to the retailer – not the delivery company – as the contract is with the retailer. Even if some time has passed since delivery, it is worth raising the issue, particularly if the damage could only have been caused during transit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to sign to say the appliance is in good condition on delivery?
Not if the appliance has not been inspected. If the delivery form includes a “received in good condition” declaration, leave that box unticked or cross out the phrase and write “not checked” beside the signature. A packaged appliance cannot be meaningfully inspected at the door, and any declaration made without inspection carries little weight legally.
Can I still complain about damage if I already signed the delivery note?
Yes, though the signed note may give the retailer an opportunity to dispute the claim. The Consumer Rights Act gives consumers a reasonable time to inspect goods. Being handed a packaged appliance does not constitute a reasonable inspection opportunity. Report any damage in writing as quickly as possible and keep all records of the communication.
How long do I have to report damage found after delivery?
There is no fixed legal deadline, but the sooner damage is reported the better. Damage that appears consistent with transit is a stronger claim when reported promptly. The Consumer Rights Act provides a 30-day right to reject goods that are not of satisfactory quality, and broader rights beyond that. See: Consumer Rights Act and faulty appliances.
Should I report damage to the delivery company or the retailer?
The retailer. Your contract is with the retailer, not the delivery company. Report the damage to the retailer in writing, with photographs where possible, and keep copies of all correspondence.
1 Comment
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Thanks for the article about signing for a package. Excellent article answered a few questions . Thanks again.