I am writing to formally request your assistance with a consumer rights issue regarding
two outdoor tables I purchased from El Corte Inglés Portugal in June 2022, from their Le
Mans garden furniture range.
The purchase included:
- One 6-foot dining table, and
- One matching coffee table
Both were marketed as high-end, durable outdoor furniture. Despite being covered and
maintained correctly, both items deteriorated prematurely—well before any reasonable
lifespan for outdoor furniture. By 2025, the structural integrity of both tables had
significantly degraded to the point of being unusable.
I submitted photos, videos, and proof of purchase to El Corte Inglés customer service. I
initially received no response. After following up with an in-store visit and a further phone
call, I was finally told that nothing could be done because the warranty had expired.
Moreover, I was blamed for the damage, with claims that sunlight reflecting through the
glass top caused fiber breakdown, and that I should have stored both tables
indoors—despite them being explicitly sold for garden use.
At no point did any representative inspect the furniture. The conclusion was based on
assumption and used as justification to avoid responsibility.
We understand the legal warranty expired in 2024. However, Portuguese consumer law
also protects consumers in cases of premature product failure not caused by misuse.
We believe this clearly applies here. Outdoor furniture of this kind and price point should
last a minimum of 8–10 years under normal conditions. The company’s refusal to
acknowledge the fault or offer any kind of goodwill resolution has been extremely
disappointing.
I am requesting DECO’s support with:
- An assessment of my rights under consumer protection law
- Mediation with El Corte Inglés or escalation of the matter if necessary
- Support in seeking a repair, replacement, or partial refund
- Guidance on raising this with the relevant authorities if no resolution is reached
I am happy to provide all supporting documents and images upon request.
Thank you for your support. I look forward to hearing from you.
