This is the reply I have had from Consumer Direct which deals with these problems instead of North Yorkshire Trading Standards.
"I understand that you purchased a caravan from a local dealer which had a 5 year warranty issued by the manufacturer, who has since gone out of business. In this circumstance, the guarantee is no longer valid as the company you would claim against no longer exists. However, you do have rights against the dealer you bought the caravan from, if you have problems with the caravan within six years of purchase.
Under the Sale of Goods Act 1979 (as amended), all goods supplied by a trader to a consumer must be of a satisfactory quality, fit for their purposes, and as described. If this is not the case, then you may have the right to reject the goods in question and ask for a refund.
The law states that you only have a short time in which to reject goods for a full refund, and once "acceptance" is deemed to have taken place, your rights will be limited in the first instance to claiming a repair, or possibly a replacement or partial refund. Unfortunately you are not able to request a specific remedy - you are entitled to the remedy which is most proportionate and which can be provided within a reasonable time.
It is entirely your decision whether or not to also buy an extended warranty. It may be the case that the warranty offers additional benefits to those provided under the Sale of Goods Act 1979, and you would need to look into this fully.
It is not clear from your correspondence whether or not you currently have a problem with the caravan. If you have, I would suggest that you call Consumer Direct on the telephone number below, in order that we may discuss your rights in more detail.
I trust the above information is of some assistance to you. If you require any further information or clarification on this case please do not hesitate to contact Consumer Direct quoting your reference number.
Thank you for your enquiry.
Yours sincerely
Susan Hughes Consumer Direct Yorkshire and Humber Tel: 08454 04 05 06 Web: www.consumerdirect.gov.uk Open: 8:00am to 6:30pm Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 1:00pm Saturday
It seems that if there are any problems within 6 years of purchase and they are the manufacturers fault, the dealer has to take responsibility.
I would think that taking out a warranty with the dealer is far too expensive considering what it actually covers.
Has anyone else had a quote elsewhere?
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