Refund policy

Modern Vintage - Returns & Refunds Policy

Last updated: 25/11/2025

At a Glance Summary

• Returns accepted within 7 days of delivery
 • One free return per order (within 7 days)
 • R350 handling fee applies to additional returns
• Unfortunately, we don’t accept ‘change of mind’ returns due to the fragile nature of these items.
• Items must be unused, uninstalled, and in original condition
 • All original inner packaging + protective outer shipping box required
 • Refunds issued after inspection only
 • Installed, used, altered, or damaged items are not eligible for return

Modern Vintage is committed to delivering high-quality products and a reliable shopping experience. This Returns & Refunds Policy outlines how returns, refunds, and replacements are handled, in accordance with South African Consumer Protection Act (CPA) guidelines.

1. Return Eligibility

To qualify for a return, all of the following conditions must be met:

  • The return request is submitted within 7 days of delivery
  • The item is unused, uninstalled, unaltered, and in its original condition
  • All original inner packaging is included (e.g., branded box, protective inserts, sleeves, manuals, screws & accessories)
  • The item is packed inside a secondary outer shipping box with protective cushioning for safe transport
  • The product has not been damaged, marked, or exposed to moisture, paint, installation attempts, or electrical connection

Modern Vintage may refuse a return if any of the above conditions are not met.

2. Return Eligibility Checklist (Required Before Approval)

Customers must confirm the following before a return request is approved:

  • I have the original product box, sleeves, and protective inner packaging
  • I will place the product box inside a protective outer box for return shipping
  • The item has not been installed or used
  • All parts, components, screws, and accessories are included

This ensures safe transit and preserves product resale value.

3. How to Initiate a Return

To request a return, email orders@modern-vintage.co.za with:

  • Order number
  • Reason for return

Our team will review your request within 2–3 business days and confirm next steps.

4. Free Return Policy (One per Order)

Your first return request needs to be made within 7 days of delivery and is free of charge.

Any additional return requests for the same order will incur a R350 handling fee, unless the item is confirmed defective or damaged upon arrival.

5. Return Shipping & Packaging Requirements

To ensure safe return of fragile items, the following must be followed:

  • The item must be placed in all original inner packaging (including sleeves, inserts, protective materials)
  • The item must then be placed inside a separate outer shipping box with adequate cushioning
  • Returns shipped in ONLY the original product box, or without protective packaging, will not qualify for a full refund
  • Damage caused by inadequate packaging will result in deductions or rejection of the return

6. Inspection Process & Outcome

Once received, returned items undergo inspection within 2-3 working days to verify condition.

Based on inspection, one of the following outcomes will apply:

Approved for Full Refund/Credit:
 • Meets all eligibility criteria and is in an unused, uninstalled, and resalable condition

Approved for Partial Refund/Credit:
 • Missing packaging, missing parts, or signs of handling / minor damage
 • Deductions will be applied to cover restoration or repackaging costs

Not Approved:
 • Item used, installed, altered, or in a non-resalable condition

Refunds are processed within 1–2 working days after inspection approval. Banks may take up to 3 business days to reflect funds. An email confirmation shall be sent to you, to inform you that your refund has been processed.

7. Fees & Deductions

The following may apply:

Scenario Fee
First return per order Free
Additional return requests for same order R350 handling fee
“Change of mind” return R350 handling fee
Missing/damaged packaging or parts Deduction based on extent of damage
Return rejected due to condition No refund issued; customer may collect item

 

8. Non-Returnable Items

For compliance reasons, the following items cannot be returned:

  • Custom-made, personalized, or specially-ordered items
  • Items damaged due to misuse, alteration, modification, or incorrect installation

Once an electrical product has been wired, installed, or modified, it is considered used and cannot be returned.

9. Faulty or Damaged Items Upon Arrival

If your item arrives damaged or defective, please notify us within 48 hours of delivery with photos of:

  • The product
  • The defect or damage
  • Inner and outer packaging

We will arrange a replacement or refund as required under CPA guidelines.

Our team will ask you if you want a replacement, credit or a refund.

Regardless of your decision, we shall uplift the damaged/faulty item.

10. Product Usage & Safety

All electrical products must be installed and used according to manufacturer guidelines and local safety standards.
 Incorrect installation may pose safety risks and void eligibility for return, replacement, or refund.

11. CPA Compliance & Disputes

This policy is aligned with the South African Consumer Protection Act (CPA).

Should a concern arise, please contact our support team first : orders@modern-vintage.co.za. If unresolved, you may seek dispute resolution through recognized consumer mediation channels in South Africa.

12. Policy Amendments

This policy may be updated periodically. The latest version will always be available on our website and is effective immediately upon posting.

13. Contact Us

For any return or refund enquiries:
 📧 orders@modern-vintage.co.za