Particulars of body:

The following private-sector complaint and appeal bodies are approved by the Forbrugerklagenævnet:

Further details of each body’s structure and powers and the costs associated with dealing with a case may be obtained from the Forbrugerklagenævnet, by consulting the Forbrugerstyrelsen’s Internet site.

Structure: The Forbrugerklagenævnet consists of a chairman together with members representing the interests of consumers and trade and industry. The chairman must fulfil the general conditions necessary for appointment as a judge and may not have any special interest in consumer organisations or trade and industry organisations. The consumer and trade and industry representatives are appointed by the Minister of Business and Industry for three years at a time, on the recommendation of the organisations concerned.

Powers: The Forbrugerklagenævnet deals with complaints from consumers concerning goods, work or services provided by a business. Complaints may not be lodged by public authorities or public institutions. Complaints may be lodged against a party who, under the general provisions of Danish law, can be sued in a Danish court concerning the matter to which the complaint relates. Compensation must amount to at least DKK 500, but not more than DKK 24 000. The powers of the Forbrugerklagenævnet are specified in more detail in the Order on its sphere of activity (Bekendtgørelse om Forbrugerklagenævnets virksomhedsområde).

Procedure: A complaint is dealt with on the basis of written documentation, and oral statements may not be made by the parties during meetings of the Board. A complaint may be referred to the Board only if it has already been addressed to the business concerned.

Cost: The fee for the hearing of a complaint is DKK 80, or DKK 400 in cases involving a motor vehicle. If the main points of the consumer’s complaint are upheld, the opposing party must pay the fee. The Board covers the cost of procuring any expert opinions regarded as necessary. Neither party pays the other party’s costs incurred as a result of the hearing.

Nature of the Decision: Decisions are not binding or enforceable. When the Board has made a decision, the matter can be taken to court by either party. If the Board’s decision is not complied with, its secretariat will take the matter to court, at the request and on behalf of the consumer.

Enforcement: See 6. Decisions are not binding. If a decision is not complied with by a business, the case must be taken to court. For more detailed information, see the Forbrugerstyrelsen’s Internet site.