General legal information, not legal advice. For your own dispute, check with your national consumer helpline or a solicitor.
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Consumer rights in Northern Ireland: time limits, small claims and help

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 applies in Northern Ireland as it does in the rest of the UK. You usually have 6 years to bring a claim, the small claims court deals with claims up to £5,000, and Consumerline gives free advice.

Reviewed · applies across the UK unless a nation is named · sources listed below · how we check

How long you have to claim

Under the Limitation (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 you generally have 6 years from the date of the breach of contract, which for faulty goods is usually the date of delivery.

The small claims court

Since 3 October 2022 the small claims court in Northern Ireland has dealt with claims of up to £5,000 (the limit was previously £3,000). It is an informal process in the county court, usually without the need for a solicitor, and you can apply online. If your claim is worth more than £5,000, you can either give up the amount above £5,000 to stay in the small claims court or bring a full county court claim.

Free advice

Consumerline is the consumer advice helpline for the Trading Standards Service in Northern Ireland, on 0300 123 6262. It can pass complaints to Trading Standards where the law may have been broken.

Quick answers

How long do I have to bring a consumer claim in Northern Ireland?

Usually 6 years from the date of the breach of contract, under the Limitation (Northern Ireland) Order 1989.

What is the small claims limit in Northern Ireland?

£5,000, since 3 October 2022. If your claim is worth more, you can give up the excess or bring a full county court claim.

Do I need a solicitor for a small claim in Northern Ireland?

Usually not. The small claims process is designed to be informal and used without a solicitor or barrister.

Who do I contact for free consumer advice in Northern Ireland?

Consumerline, on 0300 123 6262.

Official sources

Check your own situation

The Be Consumer Wise app walks you through what you bought, how you paid and what went wrong, shows the right helpline for your part of the UK, and lets you ask ConsumerBot follow-up questions.

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Reviewed 2026-09-23. General legal information about UK consumer rights, not legal advice.