Refund from Gym After Injury or Relocation
Life happens, and sometimes you can no longer use your gym membership due to injury or moving home. Many gym contracts seem ironclad, but you have consumer rights that can help you get your money back.
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Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, contract terms must be fair and transparent. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has specific guidance stating that gym contract terms preventing cancellation due to long-term illness, injury, or relocation are likely to be unfair. You are generally entitled to a pro-rata refund for services you cannot reasonably use due to these unforeseen circumstances.
Step by step
- 1Review your gym membership contract carefully for clauses regarding cancellation due to injury, illness, or relocation. Note any specific requirements.
- 2Gather supporting evidence. This could be a doctor's note or medical certificate confirming your injury, or proof of your new address like a utility bill or tenancy agreement.
- 3Contact the gym in writing, clearly stating your reason for cancellation and requesting a pro-rata refund. Attach your evidence and refer to the unfair terms guidance from the CMA if applicable.
- 4If the gym refuses or offers an unsatisfactory solution, escalate your complaint. You can contact Citizens Advice for further guidance or consider taking your case to an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) scheme if the gym is a member of one.
What they'll say, and your comeback
“Our contract states memberships are non-refundable, regardless of circumstances.”
Comeback, Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, terms that prevent cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances like injury or relocation are likely to be unfair. The CMA has specific guidance on this.
“You can freeze your membership instead of cancelling.”
Comeback, Freezing is not a suitable option as I am permanently unable to use the gym due to my injury or relocation. I am requesting a pro-rata refund for services I cannot use.
“We require more detailed medical information or proof of relocation.”
Comeback, I have provided sufficient evidence, such as a doctor's note or proof of my new address. I am not obligated to disclose excessive personal medical details.
FAQ
What if my gym contract explicitly says no refunds for injury or relocation?
Even if your contract states this, such a term is likely to be considered unfair under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. You should still challenge it, citing the CMA's guidance on unfair terms in gym contracts.
Can I get a full refund for my entire membership period?
Typically, you are entitled to a pro-rata refund for the unused portion of your membership from the date you notified the gym of your inability to use the facilities. It's unlikely you'd get a refund for time you've already used.
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- UK / USHow to stop a gym charging you after you cancelled
- GlobalHow to get a refund after a free trial charged you
- UKHow to Cancel Your PureGym Membership & Stop Payments
- FranceRésilier un abonnement et obtenir un remboursement en France
- GermanyAbo kündigen und Geld zurück in Deutschland
- IrelandCancel a Subscription and Get a Refund in Ireland
A self-serve tool, not a law firm. General information, not legal advice.