Can a Store Refuse a Refund for an Item Damaged While in Their Care?

LionKing7 · 27-04-2026 03:16PM #1

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some advice on an issue I’ve run into with a recent purchase from a hardware shop.

Back in January, I bought an ex-display vanity unit for €600. Since I wasn’t ready to install it yet, I asked the store if they could hold it in their warehouse until I was ready to collect it. They agreed, and everything seemed fine at the time.

Fast forward to this past Saturday—I went to collect the unit, and while loading it, I noticed that the bottom section (it’s a floor-standing vanity unit) is damaged/broken. I immediately took a video as evidence and raised the issue with the store, requesting a refund.

However, they are now refusing to refund me, even though the unit is clearly damaged.

I’m trying to figure out what my options are here:

Am I entitled to a refund given that the item was in their care the whole time?
Does the fact that it was an ex-display item affect my rights?
What would you suggest as the next step—consumer protection complaint, chargeback, something else?

Any advice or similar experiences would be really helpful. Thanks in advance!

Caranica · 28-04-2026 09:11PM

You left it there for 4 months, you're very lucky it was there at all!

chrisd2019 · 28-04-2026 10:02PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058437700/can-a-store-refuse-a-refund-for-an-item-damaged-while-in-their-care

To have any chance of some compensation you need to be able to prove the damage was not present when you bought the display model. Also the sales note may say sold as seen or similar.

Cabaal · 30-04-2026 12:54PM

As already stated, you need to be able to prove it wasn't damaged when you purchased it.
If you cannot then I think you'll be out of luck.

Very silly leaving the item with them for so long after buying it.

JIdontknow · 30-04-2026 01:20PM

The sales note may say "display model", so how can you prove the damage wasn't there at the time hence being the display model and reduced price. Also the fact it was left there for a few months doesn't help your case. How bad is the damage, is it noticeable / can it be repaired?

Can a Store Refuse a Refund for an Item Damaged While in Their Care?

Comments