Common complaints include retailers selling new RVs that do not meet consumer guarantees, and faults leading to disputes between manufacturers and retailers about which party is responsible for the cost of repairs.
“The caravan industry has experienced strong sales growth in recent years, and this is expected to increase as more Australians choose to travel domestically rather than overseas due to the ongoing pandemic,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said. “We are looking for further information from consumers and industry about the issues they have had with their caravans and their experience trying to get their concerns fixed. This information will help to inform our future work, including possible enforcement action.”
The ACCC has published separate surveys for purchasers and retailers.
The purchaser survey focuses on the sales process and whether consumers had any subsequent faults with their new RV, and, if so, whether they were able to have these resolved under the warranty or the consumer guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law.
The retailer survey focuses on any disputes with consumers about warranties and consumer guarantees, and whether retailers have had any indemnification disputes with manufacturers.
Both surveys are available at the ACCC consultation hub and will remain open until 10 December 2021
“If you are a retailer of new RVs or a consumer, please take the time to complete the survey,” Ms Rickard said.
“Empowering consumers and improving industry compliance with consumer guarantees, with a focus on high value goods including motor vehicles and caravans, is a current compliance and enforcement priority for the ACCC.”
