Consequential Losses for Faulty Goods UK — What You Can Claim

Foreseeability

The loss must have been foreseeable to a reasonable person at the time of purchase. Laundromat costs from a faulty washing machine are foreseeable. The cost of a rare antique garment ruined by the same fault may not be.

Causation

The loss must be directly caused by the fault. You must be able to show a clear link between the faulty product and the specific cost you are claiming.

Washing machine

• Laundromat costs for the duration of the fault
• Dry cleaning costs for items that would normally be washed at home
• Damage to clothing from a fault that causes abnormal spin or heat

Fridge or freezer

• Cost of food that spoiled due to the fault
• Cost of eating out or buying convenience food during the fault period
• Replacement ice packs or temporary cooling equipment

Boiler or central heating

• Temporary accommodation if the home became uninhabitable in winter
• Space heater hire or purchase if reasonable
• Plumber call-out if the fault caused a secondary issue

Vehicle

• Hire car or alternative transport costs during repair
• Lost earnings if vehicle is essential for work (subject to foreseeability)
• Taxi costs to and from the repair facility

Any product (return shipping)

• Postage costs to return the item for repair or refund
• Insurance/tracking costs for the return shipment
• Packing materials if not provided by the retailer

Can I claim for losses caused by a faulty product in the UK?

Yes. CRA 2015 s.19(9) and (10) preserve your right to claim damages for foreseeable consequential losses caused by the fault — in addition to your primary right to a refund or replacement.

What types of consequential losses can I claim?

Laundromat costs (washing machine fault), food spoilage (fridge/freezer fault), alternative accommodation (boiler failure), hire car costs (vehicle fault), temporary tool hire, and return shipping. Each must be foreseeable, documented with receipts, and directly caused by the fault.

How do I document consequential losses?

Keep every receipt. Create a dated log linking each cost to the faulty product. Photograph spoiled food before disposal. Include the total consequential loss in your formal complaint and all escalation claims.

Are there limits on how much I can claim?

The limit is reasonableness and foreseeability. You can only claim foreseeable losses directly caused by the fault. You cannot claim for remote or unforeseeable losses, or for losses you could have mitigated.

Can I include consequential losses in a chargeback or court claim?

Yes. Include them in the total amount disputed in a chargeback, list each separately in a county court claim statement, and include them with documentation in your ADR submission.