The COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown have scuppered many couples’ plans this year. Have you been forced to cancel your wedding due to the coronavirus crisis?
Lockdown restrictions are playing havoc with many couples’ dreams of tying the knot this summer.
Read all the latest COVID-19 news and advice on our dedicated hub
I’ve recently spoken with a number of couples who have faced difficulties when trying to rearrange their dates or get their money back from venues.
Some told us their insurance providers aren’t paying out either.
If you’re facing challenges with your venue or suppliers, here’s some more info about your rights.
Is your cancellation policy fair?
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is currently looking into cancellation policy concerns in these sectors:
🔹 Weddings and private events
🔹 Holiday accommodation
🔹 Nursery and childcare providers
Its guidance for businesses states that it expects customers to be refunded where they have cancelled or haven’t received a service due to coronavirus restrictions.
This includes non-refundable deposits and advance payments. Admin fees for processing refunds should also be waived.
If you don’t feel your venue or supplier is following these guidelines, you can report them to the CMA.
Next steps
Despite the CMA’s guidance, I’ve been hearing from many couples who have experienced problems when trying to rebook or get a refund.
If you think your venue may be acting unfairly or flouting the CMA’s guidance, here’s what you can do:
🔹 Check your terms and conditions carefully, looking out for any terms that give too much power to the venue. These terms might be considered unfair and could be unenforceable.
🔹 Read up on your rights when cancelling a service – they will differ depending on whether you or the venue cancelled.
🔹 Make a claim with your bank – if you paid by credit card you may be able to make a Section 75 claim and if you paid by debit card you can try using chargeback.
🔹 Report the venue to the CMA or the financial ombudsman.
If you’re not being offered your money back for a service you haven’t received due to COVID-19, whether it’s from your venue, suppliers or insurance provider, we’d like to hear from you.
Are you struggling to get a refund or suitable postponement date for your wedding?
Share your story in the comments below.
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