For distance purchases, such as online or by telephone, you have a right to a 14-day cooling-off period in Leiden. Within this period, you can return the product without giving a reason and get your money back. This is called the right of withdrawal.
When does the cooling-off period apply?
The 14-day cooling-off period applies to:
- Online purchases via webshops
- Telephone orders
- Door-to-door sales (canvassing)
- Sales at markets or fairs (in some cases)
Start of the cooling-off period
- Physical products: from the day of receipt
- Services: from the moment the agreement is concluded
- Digital products: from the day of purchase
How can you withdraw?
You must indicate within 14 days that you wish to exercise the right of withdrawal. This can be done by:
- Filling in the seller's withdrawal form
- Sending a written notice (for example by e-mail or post)
After the notification, you have another 14 days to return the product.
Exceptions to the right of withdrawal
There is no cooling-off period for:
- Products that perish quickly (such as food or flowers)
- Sealed goods that cannot be returned after opening (for example software or hygiene products)
- Items specially made to measure
- Loose newspapers or magazines
- Agreements for travel or transport
- Tickets for concerts or events
Costs upon return
The seller must refund both the purchase price and the original shipping costs (outbound). However, the return shipping costs are often at your own expense, unless the seller states otherwise.
Frequently asked questions about the right of withdrawal
What does my right to return entail?
For purchases via the internet, you have 14 days to return without reason, except for statutory exceptions.
How long does the legal warranty last?
Products must function properly for at least 2 years. Defects within 6 months are presumed to have been present at purchase.
Can I claim interest on outstanding amounts?
Yes, you can claim statutory interest (approximately 8% per year) on the amount due.
What to do in case of misleading commercial practices?
You can file a complaint with the Consumers' Association, a government authority, or start a legal procedure.
What is a credit agreement?
A credit agreement sets out the terms for borrowing money, including interest and repayment.
Legal support in Leiden
For legal advice on the right of withdrawal or other consumer matters, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, handles disputes in this area.