Can services be subject to the Consumer Guarantees Act?

The Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) of New Zealand covers both goods and services. When it comes to services, the Act mandates that they must be performed with reasonable care and skill. This ensures that consumers are given a level of assurance regarding the quality and reliability of the services they receive. If a service provider fails to meet this standard, consumers are entitled to seek remedies, such as repairs, replacements, or refunds, depending on the circumstances.

This provision aims to protect consumers by ensuring that they can expect a certain level of competence and professionalism from service providers. For instance, if a plumber installs a system improperly due to lack of skill, the consumer has the right to claim for a remedy under the CGA.

The other options suggest limitations that do not reflect the broad application of the law. The misunderstanding often arises from the belief that the CGA only pertains to tangible goods, overlooking its clear inclusion of services and the standards required for their provision.