Satisfactory Quality

Satisfactory quality is the standard the Consumer Rights Act 2015 says goods must meet. If they fall short, you may have rights against the trader.

Last updated: 19 October 2026

What it means

Section 9 of the Act treats every contract to supply goods as including a term that the quality of the goods is satisfactory. Quality is satisfactory if the goods meet the standard a reasonable person would consider satisfactory, taking into account their description, their price where relevant and all other relevant circumstances. Aspects of quality can include fitness for usual purposes, appearance and finish, freedom from minor defects, safety and durability [1].

Why it matters when you buy

It is one of the three tests for faulty goods, alongside fitness for a particular purpose and matching the description. Citizens Advice says you have no legal rights if the damage came from wear and tear, an accident or misuse, or if you knew about the fault before you bought [2].

Sources

  1. Consumer Rights Act 2015, section 9 (goods to be of satisfactory quality), legislation.gov.uk. Checked 19 October 2026.
  2. Return faulty goods, Citizens Advice (England), citizensadvice.org.uk. The page shows no review date. Checked 19 October 2026.