Return & Refund Policy
What to do if something goes wrong
Return & Refund Policy
Effective Date: [EFFECTIVE DATE] | Last Updated: [LAST UPDATED DATE]
Every piece we create is handmade, one-of-a-kind, and made with care. We want you to be happy with your purchase. If something isn't right, here's how we handle it.
1. Standard (Non-Custom) Purchases
If you are not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, you may return the item within [7 OR 14] days of the delivery date for a refund of the purchase price, minus original shipping costs.
To be eligible for a return:
- The item must be in its original condition — unused, undamaged, and free of any alterations.
- You must contact us by email before returning the item to receive a Return Authorization.
- Return shipping is the buyer's responsibility unless the return is due to our error or a product defect.
- We recommend using a tracked shipping method. We are not responsible for items lost in return transit.
Refunds will be issued to your original PayPal payment method within 5–7 business days of receiving and inspecting the returned item.
2. Natural Wood Variation — Not a Return Basis
Handmade wooden pieces will have natural variation in grain, figure, color, mineral streaks, knots, and finish sheen. These are inherent characteristics of the material and the handcraft process — not defects. We photograph each piece to accurately represent its appearance. Natural variation is not grounds for a return.
If you have questions about a specific piece before purchasing, please contact us — we're happy to provide additional photos.
3. Defective or Damaged Items
If your item arrives with a structural defect (e.g., a crack, split, or joint failure that was not visible in the listing photographs and was not caused by shipping), please contact us within 48 hours of delivery with:
- Your order confirmation number or email
- Clear photographs of the defect
- A brief description of the issue
We will work with you to make it right — either through a replacement, repair, or full refund at our discretion. We stand behind our craftsmanship.
4. Damage in Shipping
If your item is damaged during shipping, please:
- Photograph the damaged packaging and item before unpacking fully.
- Contact us within 48 hours of delivery with your photos and order details.
- Retain all original packaging materials — the carrier may require inspection.
We ship with care and, where available, with shipping insurance. We will file any required carrier claims and work to get you a replacement or refund as quickly as possible.
5. Custom & Commissioned Orders
Custom and commissioned pieces are non-refundable once work has begun, unless the piece has a structural defect as described in Section 3 above. This is because custom pieces are made specifically for you using materials sourced for your order.
If you have concerns about a commissioned piece before it ships, please contact us during the production process. We will do everything reasonable to ensure you are satisfied before shipment.
6. Quebec Consumers — Statutory Cancellation Right
Consumers in Quebec have statutory rights under the Consumer Protection Act (R.S.Q. c. P-40.1) that cannot be waived by contract. Under Quebec law, you may have the right to cancel a distance contract (online purchase) within 7 days of receiving the goods without providing a reason. If you are a Quebec consumer and wish to exercise this right, please contact us within the 7-day period.
Note: Quebec's cancellation right may have limitations for custom/commissioned items. Consult a Quebec consumer protection attorney if you have questions.
7. Non-Returnable Items
The following are not eligible for return or refund:
- Custom and commissioned pieces (after work has begun — see Section 5)
- Items with buyer-caused damage or alterations
- Items returned without prior authorization
- Items returned more than [7 OR 14] days after delivery (except where required by law)
8. How to Initiate a Return
- Email us at [CONTACT EMAIL]">[CONTACT EMAIL] with your order details and the reason for your return.
- We will respond within 2 business days with a Return Authorization and return shipping instructions.
- Ship the item securely using a tracked method. Do not return items without a Return Authorization — they may be refused.
- Once received and inspected, your refund will be processed within 5–7 business days.
Questions? Contact us:
Email: [CONTACT EMAIL]">[CONTACT EMAIL]
Instagram: @ritual_custom_woodworks
We typically respond within 1–2 business days.