If you’ve ever wondered whether a refurbished phone warranty is as good as new, you’re not alone. The rules feel messy. Retailers use different terms. And no one wants surprises when something goes wrong.
This guide clears it up. We’ll explain what a refurbished warranty usually covers, how it sits alongside your UK Consumer Rights, and the key checks before you buy. As a leading UK expert in refurbished tech, The Big Phone Store has your back, so you can shop confidently and save money.
What is a refurbished phone warranty?
A refurbished phone warranty is a promise from the seller to fix or replace the device if it develops a fault within a set period. Many reputable UK retailers offer 12 months as standard on refurbished devices, sometimes with different terms for batteries.
Warranty vs your legal rights
Your warranty sits on top of the Consumer Rights Act 2015. That law gives you strong protections if a phone is faulty, regardless of whether a separate warranty exists. Within 30 days you can reject faulty goods for a full refund; after that, you’re entitled to a repair or replacement, and potentially a refund if those don’t work.
Most policies cover internal faults that appear during normal use. Exclusions commonly include:
- Accidental or liquid damage
- Physical damage (cracked screens, dents)
- Damage from unauthorised repairs or modifications
- Normal wear and tear (often including battery ageing)
What about batteries?
Batteries wear down over time. Some retailers give shorter coverage on batteries (for example, three months) and set a minimum health standard at sale. The Big Phone Store, for example, guarantees at least 85% battery health on refurbished phones.
There’s no legal “minimum warranty” length. Marketplace programmes and top refurbishers commonly provide 12 months as standard, with options to extend. Some retailers even offer 24 months or lifetime add-ons for extra peace of mind.
Can I buy an extended warranty?
Yes. Extended warranties add time and coverage beyond the standard period. You usually get a cooling-off period if you change your mind. Always read what’s covered, what’s excluded, and how to claim.
- Within 30 days: If the phone is faulty, you can reject it for a refund under the Consumer Rights Act.
- After 30 days: The retailer gets a chance to repair or replace. If they can’t fix it, you can seek a refund (potentially with a deduction for use). A separate warranty can streamline this process.
- No warranty? You still have statutory rights on faulty goods.
| Where you buy | Typical refurbished phone warranty | Pros | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specialist refurbisher (e.g., The Big Phone Store) | Usually 12 months on devices; battery terms may differ; optional extended cover | Clear grading, thorough testing, UK support | Check exclusions |
| Marketplace “refurbished” programmes | Often 12 months seller guarantee | Easy returns, standardised policies | Read guarantee small print; who handles repairs? |
| Private seller (classifieds) | Usually none | Lowest upfront price | You rely on statutory rights only if they’re a business seller; limited comeback |
Tip: Always keep proof of purchase. It speeds up claims.
How to check a refurbished phone warranty before you buy
- Length: Aim for at least 12 months on the device.
- Battery terms: Is battery health guaranteed? Is battery coverage shorter?
- What’s excluded: Look for accidental damage, water damage, and third-party repairs in the exclusions.
- How to claim: Who pays postage? How long do repairs take?
- Support options: UK-based help, an online portal, or store drop-off?
- Extended cover: Can you add 24 months or lifetime cover for extra peace of mind?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):
Usually not. Consider a separate insurance policy for drops and spills.
Yes. Your Consumer Rights apply beyond the warranty if the product was faulty at the time of sale, with specific time limits and tests.
If you bought online, you generally have 14 days to cancel under distance selling rules, provided you meet return conditions. Or, 30 days with us at The Big Phone Store. Check the seller’s policy for details.
- 12-month warranty as standard on refurbished devices
- 85%+ battery health on phones
- Options to extend to 24 months or even lifetime cover
- UK testing, grading, and customer support
Conclusion
A refurbished phone warranty gives you practical protection and quick fixes if something goes wrong. This is on top of your strong UK consumer rights. Look for at least 12 months’ cover, read the battery terms, and check the exclusions and claim process. Buy from a trusted refurbisher and you’ll get great value and peace of mind.
Ready to get started?
- Browse our range of refurbished phones.
- Check out our guide to buying refurbished tech.
- Explore brand pages like Apple, Samsung, and Google.
- If you’re still unsure, contact The Big Phone Store team for help; we’re happy to guide you.
