Guidance forConsumers
Citizens Advice can provide free, confidential and independent advice to help you with a problem you may be having with a trader or business. Visit Citizens Advice or call on
03454 04 05 06
We are unable to advise on consumer issues directly but Citizens Advice refers complex or urgent enquiries, and those requiring further action, back to us. We can only deal with the criminal aspect of any problem, which may mean you will have to take civil action if, for example, you believe a trader owes you compensation.
Help and advice for consumers
We are here to help ensure that consumers across Devon, Somerset and Torbay can have confidence that they’ll be treated fairly and within the law by businesses.
Useful links for consumer advice
Consumer advice guides
Our guides provide comprehensive advice on your rights and what you can do if things go wrong, including how to try to resolve a dispute with a trader.
Product safety and recalls
We try to ensure that all products on sale within the two counties are safe and that any hazards are correctly labelled. Occasionally unsafe products get onto the market and a safety recall is issued.
Scams, rogue traders and doorstep crime
Information and advice to help you to avoid falling victim.
Buying products and services – easy read guide
Where to get help if you buy a product or service and there is something wrong.
Buy With Confidence
Approved traders and businesses
Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service runs the Buy With Confidence scheme to promote the highest standards of trading across the two counties, for the benefit of both consumers and businesses. Traders who are part of the scheme have been vetted by Trading Standards to ensure they operate within the law and treat customers fairly.
Latest consumer news
Majority of Exeter retailers visited comply with under 18s knife sale laws
Issued on behalf of the Exeter Community Safety Partnership, Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service and Devon and Cornwall Police. Shops and retailers in Exeter were visited by police … Continue reading
Company boss admits misleading customers
The director of a North Devon company which specialised in cleaning and repairing wax jackets, has been told to pay almost £4,500 in fines, costs and compensation for misleading consumers. … Continue reading
Rogue builder jailed for 46 months
A rogue builder has been jailed for three years and ten months (Monday March 18) for defrauding his victims. At Exeter Crown Court Lee Antony Butterworth, 47, of Oxlea Close, … Continue reading