As we do not scrutinise or endorse services or products displayed on the website please make sure that you take all precautions when accessing or purchasing services or products. Read this checklist for further information. It will help you make safer choices or purchases. (Note: Publically funded services are monitored by the funding agency concerned e.g. District Health Board, ACC etc.)
Checklist regarding services and products displayed on Eldernet:
Never give an open cheque or pin number to those who provide you with a service or product.
Ask for and check references (particularly if a service is unknown).
Obtain a written quotation where there isn’t a set price.
Always read anything you are asked to sign. If you don’t understand it ask for it to be explained in plain language. If you don’t agree with it, don’t sign it.
If you have purchased a service or product ask for a receipt. Keep it and any other documentation relating to your purchase.
Ask who you can contact and what your rights are if things go wrong or if you are not satisfied (these must align with your rights under the Consumers Guarantees Act 1993).
Is everything about the product or service clearly shown (i.e. transparent) in the information you see or are given. (If not, make a note of the things you need to know and ask questions. Be suspicious if you do not get clear answers to your questions.)
If you are purchasing a product or service that claims to help you with your disability look for references from appropriately qualified people (preferably from New Zealand) e.g. a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, doctor etc.
If you are purchasing a mobility aid then assessment by a qualified health professional such as a physiotherapist is advised. Different aids suit different conditions.
Ask for identification from unknown callers (ideally don’t open the door to unexpected callers).
Do not discuss any of your personal or financial affairs with strangers.
Read the information about your consumer rights on the Consumer Affairs website. It gives information about your rights when making purchases including: door to door sales, buying online and unsolicited goods.
Read the information about the Fair Trading Act on the Consumer Affairs website. The Fair Trading Act prohibits misleading and deceptive conduct, false representation and unfair practices. It covers advertising and selling of goods and services. It does not cover private sales.
Do not allow yourself to be ‘talked into’ purchasing unwanted or unnecessary services or products.
As a consumer you do have ‘a choice’. Your custom is valuable and you can take it elsewhere if you are not satisfied.
