Faulty goods top consumer complaints again as watchdog ramps up enforcement
Latest Helpline Report shows 42,791 consumers contacted the watchdog last year
Faulty goods and services remained the biggest consumer complaint in Ireland for the fifth consecutive year, according to new figures from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), which also revealed a significant increase in enforcement activity during 2025.
The CCPC's latest Helpline Report shows 42,791 consumers contacted the watchdog last year, with one in five complaints relating to faulty goods or services. Consumers spent an average of €6,292 on the product or service they experienced problems with, while more than 10,000 people were referred to the Small Claims Court.
Issues involving cars generated the highest number of enquiries, with 5,827 contacts, while complaints about online shopping rose by 14% and concerns over home building and improvement work increased by 12%.
The report also found consumers spent an average of €14,597 on home improvement projects that later became the subject of complaints.
CCPC Director of Communications Gráinne Griffin said consumers have strong rights when buying online or purchasing faulty goods and reminded shoppers that responsibility for resolving faults rests with the retailer, not the manufacturer.
She also urged homeowners planning renovations to check contractors' references, obtain written quotations and sign contracts before work begins.
Separately, the CCPC's 2025 Annual Report highlights a record year for enforcement, including the landmark conviction of five school bus operators for bid-rigging in a public transport tender and a 31% increase in consumer protection inspections.
The watchdog carried out 270 inspections, secured five successful prosecutions against major retailers for breaches of pricing laws and recovered €350,000 in refunds for more than 4,000 Dublin Airport customers who were overcharged during parking flash sales.
More than 276,000 unsafe or non-compliant products were also recalled, withdrawn or prevented from reaching the Irish market, including tens of thousands of air fryers and circulating pumps that posed safety risks.
CCPC Chairperson Brian McHugh said the Commission would continue to use its enforcement powers to protect consumers and promote fair competition, while welcoming planned legislation that will give it stronger powers to fine businesses for breaches of consumer law.