A historical change in the European Union's consumer culture came into effect since last July, as its new rules are now in force. «Directive on the Right of Repair» (Right to Repair).
In order to combat depreciation and the drastic reduction of 35 million tonnes of waste per year, manufacturers are now obliged to provide repair services even after the end of the two-year guarantee.
At the same time, guarantees, access to spare parts and transparent prices for consumers are introduced..
Why Change the Landscape – The Huge Environmental Cost
Until now, the high cost or refusal of manufacturers to repair a damage has led millions of citizens to replace devices that could be technically corrected.
This has resulted in production in the EU around every year 35 million tonnes of waste.
The new framework aims to strengthen the circular economy while estimating that it will create growth and investment in the EUR 4.8 billion in the European economy.
Which devices are covered and what changes after warranty
The new rules concern a wide range of everyday products:
- Smartphones and Tablets
- Televisions and monitors
- Laundrys, dishwashers and refrigerators
- Electrical vacuum cleaners, ovens, servers and data storage systems
It should be noted that other categories such as computers will be added in future.
The most revolutionary point of the directive is that even after the legal guarantee has expired, manufacturers will not be able to refuse repair, if technically possible.
Although after two years the repair will not always be free, companies are obliged to offer their services to reasonable, transparent and competitive prices.
New consumer rights
With the entry into force of the new framework, consumers gain significant privileges:
- Extension of Guarantee by 12 months: If a device removes damage within the warranty period and the consumer chooses repair instead of replacement, the legal warranty of the product expand automatically for another 1 year.
- Standard Offer Form: Before any repair, the consumer may request an official form with detailed cost, completion time and availability of a replacement device. This offer will remain binding for at least 30 days.
- Availability of Spare Parts & Updates: Manufacturers are required to guarantee the availability of spare parts for years, to provide at least 5 years of software updates, but also have technical manuals and tools in independent external workshops.
When the repair is in the best interest – The new European platform
The general rule for consumers is that:
- If the repair costs more than 80% the price of a new device, then it is good to replace.
- If the cost is less than 50%, repair is the most advantageous option.
Finally, until 31 July 2027, the European Union will launch a central online platform (with a special unit for each Member State), through which citizens can easily identify certified, independent repair centres but also renovated (refurbished) products.
