Is this standard protocol at LDS's

[misdmnr]

I recently purchased a reg from the LDS I originally was certified through many years ago. I also purchased a BC, 3/2 mm suit, octo, and dive computer from him the same day. After the purchase of the reg I considered returning it (literally 2 days later), unused and still with tags on it, for a different one. (He did not know the new reg I was looking at would be from a diff LDS) Anywho, what I'm asking is this: He told me that he would not return the reg as it was a "life support device". I feel this was a cop out. What is policy on returning a reg? I honestly did not ever get it wet.

On a positive note: The new LDS I am going to be taking my business to has been very honest with me. He will look over my internet purchases prior to buying and give me his opinion, knowing it may cost him a sale. He also did not charge me for my refresher course. I am doing my AOW class with him this weekend. The previous LDS was approx 40% less for trainings, but my new LDS has been so supportive in making sure I make the best purchases for my needs that I don't mind spending a little more for training. I also plan on going to Roatan with the LDS in April 2010. My new dive computer Uwatec Smart Pro (actually never used but 4 years old) from the old dive shop needs a new battery and my new LDS is sending it back for servicing. He also helped me muddle through how to operate it. Top notch service, top notch winning attitude! I feel lucky to have them here.

[navyhmc]

I would say cop-out from what you've said. If it were a different one from his shop, I would imagine there would be no problem. Inform him that after thinking thingsthrough, this reg will not fit your needs and you wish to return it. Tell him in no uncertain terms that is has not been in the water and has not been pressurized even (if that's a true statement) and he is jeopardizing a customer relation by his decision. If the businessman is thinking at all, he/she will realize that further purchases down the road are not worth the profits from this one piece of equipment.

If he doesn't agree to the return-and here's the important part-make sure you do not use that shop again. If anyone asks about it, you tell them why with no embelishments or exaggerations.

[CompuDude]

There is no "standard", every retailer sets their own return policies.

That does sound like criminally poor customer service, however, especially if you're looking to exchange instead of return. No local shops near me would turn that down.

[Krakenn]

In Australia there is a Sale of Goods act that states that you can return it if it it not working and a few other reasons but if you do the owner has the responsibility to replace it, repair it or give you a credit.

I dont mean to be rude but if you just decided to return it because you no longer liked it or you found a better deal I would think they were within their rights B/S or not. I think only your larger chain stores would do as you say as a customer service voluntary only perspective.

If you brought the reg then you must have thought alot of b4 you brought it. Maybe you should just suck it up. I would tend to feel for the store owner a little as the margins must be very tight for small businesses now.

Kraks

[MSilvia]

Sounds like a bunch of BS to me. If their policy on the "life support device" is typical of the way they do things, they may soon need a "business support device".

[in_cavediver]

Well, to me the line was BS but the fact is, they may not stock that item and may have ordered specifically for you. In my parts, returns are generally not available unless its defective - then its exchange. They may not have the margin to take back a piece of gear that is technically used.

Still - it sounds like that LDS is not long for the world.

[Vercingetorix]

In the end, you're giving your support to the store providing better customer service. That's what competition is all about. Better service warrants a premium.

[Johncalloway]

unused , my ldls has no problems taking returns. But, I love my LDS. Great people and a great enviroment.

[he3r0]

my LDS gave me 60 days, so i can see if it is what i like, when i decided for different regs (1st and 2nd stages) there was no question asked...

[Zenagirl]

Not standard protocol at all dive shops, just apparently that one! Bad customer service, unless they did order it specifically for you and specified prior that it couldn't be returned.