Section 22 — Plain language
Consumer documents and notices should be understandable in the circumstances required by the Act.
Read section 22 ↗Know your rights · No Fear. No Favour.
The Consumer Protection Act
Act 68 of 2008 — a cornerstone of consumer protection in South Africa. Find the relevant legal provision, understand its practical meaning, and use it to take informed action.
Knowledge is your first defence. The CPA protects consumers in many transactions, but its application depends on the circumstances and statutory exclusions. Specialist legislation may also apply.
Find the section that fits your complaint
Section 40 — Unconscionable conduct
Protections against coercion, undue pressure and certain forms of exploitation.
Read section 40 ↗Section 41 — Misleading representations
False, misleading or deceptive representations in marketing and supply.
Read section 41 ↗Section 48 — Unfair terms
Unfair, unreasonable or unjust prices, contract terms and practices.
Read section 48 ↗Section 54 — Quality services
Standards of service performance and remedies where applicable.
Read section 54 ↗Sections 55–56 — Goods and warranties
Quality, safety and implied warranties, subject to statutory conditions and exclusions.
Read sections 55–56 ↗Section 61 — Harm from goods
Special liability provisions for harm caused by unsafe or defective goods, subject to legal requirements and defences.
Read section 61 ↗Sections 69–70 — Dispute resolution
Routes to enforce consumer rights and alternative dispute-resolution options.
Read sections 69–70 ↗How to use the Act
1. Identify the transaction and the actual problem.
2. Check that the CPA applies and identify the relevant section and subsection.
3. Gather documents, dates, photographs and written correspondence.
4. Write a factual complaint citing the provision and stating the remedy requested.
5. Escalate through the correct regulator, ombud or legal route if unresolved.
2. Check that the CPA applies and identify the relevant section and subsection.
3. Gather documents, dates, photographs and written correspondence.
4. Write a factual complaint citing the provision and stating the remedy requested.
5. Escalate through the correct regulator, ombud or legal route if unresolved.
Read the complete legislation
Use the consolidated text below as a reading reference. The original gazetted Act is also available directly from the South African Government. Check amendments and applicable regulations before relying on any provision.
Read consolidated Act ↗Original official PDF ↗The embedded reading panel below is hosted by an independent legal information provider and may not load in every browser. Use the links above if necessary. Its cited consolidation is dated 13 March 2015.
Consumer Cop provides general public information, not individual legal advice. The CPA does not automatically reverse the burden of proof in ordinary medical negligence claims.