In February 2024, the European Union reached a provisional deal on a stronger right to repair for consumers. The decision aims to reduce waste and support the repair sector and comes together with other important steps taken over the last years to boost the circular economy in the Single Market. The new rules will lead to additional obligations for manufacturers and make repairs for consumers more accessible.
Breaking unsustainable patterns for a greener Union
To avoid that products are prematurely discarded and replaced instead of repaired, consumers should receive information about the repair options they have. In this context, the European Union is introducing the digital product passport, which will give to users access to certain data about the product, including essential information for the product sustainability and circularity. Interestingly, the amendments address the issue of repair costs as well, supporting access to reasonable prices of original parts. The deal also bans software practices which prevent certain products from being repaired independently and with the use of compatible parts.
What changes practically with the new rules on the right to repair
In the EU, consumers already benefit from the minimum 2-year guarantee (legal guarantee). Generally, this protection applies to faulty goods as well as to products that do not look or work as presented. The new bill would make repairs easier after this 2-year guarantee has expired. This “right to repair” agreement includes, among other measures:
- Extension of the legal guarantee for another year.
- Obligations for manufacturers to repair common household products, such as washing machines, vacuum cleaners, and smartphones.
- Obligations for manufacturers to inform consumers about their duty to repair.
- Consumers would be given the option to borrow a replacement product while theirs is in repair or alternatively choose a refurbished part. They should also be given free online access to repair prices.
The new rules would apply to products for which the EU legislation foresees reparability requirements. Following both the Council and the Parliament’s adoption, these changes will amend the Consumer Rights Directive and Member States will have 24 months to transpose it into their national law.
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References:
European Parliament (2024). Deal on strengthening consumers’ right to repair. Retrieved on 15.02.2024.
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