This information applies to England, Wales and Northern Ireland

You have just as much right to expect the item that you are buying to be of good quality as if you had bought the item before the sale. The only difference with sale items is that if they were clearly marked as 'shop soiled' or imperfect you would not be able to ask for a refund because you would have been aware when you bought the item that it was not going to be perfect.

All legal rights still apply to goods bought in a sale. They must be of good quality, fit for the purpose you are buying them for and as described on packaging or labels. That means that if a saucepan is described as non-stick the egg you are frying should not stick to it or the 100% cotton blouse you buy should be exactly that.

For more information on how to deal with a problem with goods, see Common problems with products.

Other Frequently asked questions about consumer affairs:

• Do shops have to give refunds for returned goods?
• Do I have to take a credit note if I return goods?
• Can I take an unwanted present back to the shop?
• Can I return something I bought in the sales?
• Do I have to take goods that don't match my order?
• Can I get a deposit back if I cancel my order?
• How can I make my builder finish the job on time?
• What does a guarantee for an item cover?
• How can a pre-paid card help me?
• What can I do if I bought a faulty car?
• What are my rights if I buy from a private seller?
• A letter says I've won a prize - is it a scam?