CCTV computer motherboard failed in less than 2 years

[Graham Goddard]

About 18 months ago, I purchased and had installed by a professional company a CCTV system at my home. I am told that the motherboard has failed, and I have been told that I will have to replace the computer at a cost of over £300 since it would cost more than that to repair.

The manufacturer's report on the fault say that it may have been damaged by a power spike. The equipment was not surge protected, simply because I received no advice from the firm at the time to do so. I also understand that under the Sale of Goods Act and EEC law, I have a good case for the replacement of electrical goods which have become faulty within two years. The firm are less than keen on meeting the cost.

In a nutshell, my question is what chances of success would I have if I took them to the small claims court?

[iStorm]

What guarante did the company offer? To me it sounds like they just installed a PC with a cctv board installed, these boards range from very crap to very good , it perhaps doesnt answer your question but my advise would be to go for a dedicated DVR on replacement. Regards Iain

[Henry]

Definitely second the suggestion of the dedicated DVR rather than putting a board into a computer. To be honest if you buy a good quality board there isn`t much of a saving and the hard drive in a PC isn`t designed for 24/7 use amongst other things (compromising your computer if things go wrong etc).

Re: getting a refund. You are probably fighting a losing battle if they say it`s down to a power surge. It`s down to you to decide if you want to fit any form of surge protection to any of your electrical products so I`m not sure you could blame them for not telling you to fit it unless their equipment is particularly prone to power fluctuations.

One of those occasions when it might be better to just get on with life and try and use it as a chance to upgrade your kit.

Henry