
Court shuts down attempt to ‘run out the clock’ on consumer complaint
The judgment confirms that the National Consumer Commission can pursue suppliers for ongoing misconduct – even when they try to stall a complaint into expiry.

The judgment confirms that the National Consumer Commission can pursue suppliers for ongoing misconduct – even when they try to stall a complaint into expiry.

The judgment makes it clear that remedies under the CPA – refund or replacement – are enforceable and cannot be frustrated by delay or technical objections.

The Tribunal orders Cape Town Motor Repairs to refund a customer and pay a R100 000 fine after failing to complete vehicle repairs within the agreed timeframe.

The suppliers, which abandoned a home renovation and denied a refund for a defective vehicle respectively, were also fined a total of R250 000.

The Information Regulator’s Guidance Note on Direct Marketing under POPIA classifies traditional phone calls as electronic communication.

From 1 December, the NCC’s contact centre hotline will be zero-rated for three months to help consumers report fake or expired foodstuffs.

The Consumer Protection Act requires suppliers to perform services in a manner that meets the reasonable expectations of consumers.