What does it mean when goods are 'defective' under the Consumer Guarantees Act?

When goods are described as 'defective' under the Consumer Guarantees Act, it refers specifically to items that fail to meet the expectations of a reasonable consumer in terms of quality and safety. This means that the goods are not fit for their intended purpose, lack quality, or present safety concerns that a reasonable consumer would not anticipate.

The legislation is focused on protecting consumers by ensuring that purchased goods adhere to a standard of quality and safety that one would expect based on the product description, advertising, and the nature of the goods themselves. For a product to be deemed defective, it must fall short of these reasonable expectations, whether due to inadequate performance, lack of durability, or safety risks.

In contrast, options related to packaging, discount pricing, or storage conditions do not directly address the quality and safety parameters set by the Consumer Guarantees Act. While improper packaging can affect a product's presentation and usability, it is not a definitive indicator of a defect in quality or safety. Similarly, goods sold at a discount are not inherently defective; they may simply be less expensive for various legitimate reasons. Likewise, goods that have been in storage for an extended period may still function properly unless their quality has been compromised in a way that affects their safety and performance.