Price Reduction Calculation in Delft
In Delft, as a consumer, you can demand a price reduction for defects in products or services. This is a statutory remedy for non-conformity, where the price is adjusted to the actual value of what you received. It offers fair compensation without dissolving the entire purchase—ideal for Delft residents shopping locally.
What is a price reduction?
Price reduction is an option when a product or service fails to meet reasonable expectations (non-conformity). Instead of repair, replacement, or cancellation, you opt for a financial discount. The calculation is based on the difference between the value delivered and what it should have been.
This works well for minor defects, such as a bicycle with a bent frame—common in bike city Delft—or when the seller cannot repair it. Consumers in Delft enjoy strong statutory protection here.
Legal basis
The rules are set out in the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 7, Title 5.2 for sales:
- Article 7:17 DCC: Non-conformity means the product must match the description, sample, or reasonable expectations.
- Article 7:21 DCC: Remedies including price reduction, based on the diminished value.
For services: Title 5.3 (art. 7:750 et seq. DCC). Supreme Court rulings, such as ECLI:NL:HR:2010:BL5464, require an objective calculation using market value or expert assessment. EU Directive 2019/771 strengthens this since 2022 for Delft residents.
How do you calculate a price reduction?
The formula: Price reduction = Paid price × (Value with defect / Value without defect). In short, the difference between a flawless and defective item.
Step-by-step guide
- Determine total value: Price of a comparable flawless product in Delft shops.
- Assess the defect: Via local experts, such as a bike mechanic in Delft or garage.
- Calculate percentage: (Value with defect / Total value) × 100%.
- Apply to paid price: That's your discount.
Table: Delft examples
| Situation | Paid price | Value without defect | Value with defect | Price reduction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washing machine (€500, defective drum) | €500 | €500 | €200 | €300 (60%) |
| Bicycle (€300, bent frame in Delft) | €300 | €300 | €150 | €150 (50%) |
| Car (€20,000, rusty chassis) | €20,000 | €20,000 | €16,000 | €4,000 (20%) |
Use appraisal reports as evidence in negotiations in Delft.
Practical examples for Delft
Example 1: Smartphone with software issue
You pay €800 for a phone. Expert values it at €500. Discount: €300 refund or credit.
Example 2: Holiday home with leak
Rental €1,000/week, value with defect €700. Discount €300 (art. 6:271 DCC for services).
Example 3: Second-hand bicycle
In Delft, seller must disclose defects (art. 7:17(2) DCC). Undisclosed bent frame: value €300 instead of €150, discount €150.
Your rights and obligations
Rights:
- Demand price reduction without going to court.
- Choose from remedies (art. 7:21 DCC).
- Time limit: reasonable period after discovery (often 2 months).
Obligations:
- Report the defect (art. 7:23 DCC).
- Evidence: invoice, photos, appraisal.
- No abuse of the rules.
For Delft webshops: right of withdrawal (art. 6:230o DCC).
Frequently asked questions
Calculate it yourself without an expert?
Yes, estimate via Marktplaats or local Delft prices, but an expert is needed for legal action.
Seller disputes the calculation?
Approach Juridisch Loket Delft for advice, or the subdistrict court at The Hague District Court. Low costs for consumers.
Applies to second-hand items?
Yes, with lower expectations (art. 7:17(2) DCC). Visible defects do not count.
How long for remedies?
At least 2 years (art. 7:18 DCC), longer for expensive items.
Tips for Delft residents
- Document everything: Photos, emails, receipts.
- Experts: Local bike mechanics or ANWB; consult Municipality of Delft for tips.
- Negotiate: Often resolved quickly.
- Help: Juridisch Loket Delft for free consultations. Use ConsuWijzer online calculators.