The EU Directive on the ‘Right to Repair’ (Directive (EU) 2024/1799) is primarily aimed at reducing the premature disposal of functional products and creating incentives for consumers to have faulty products repaired. Member States must apply the relevant requirements from 31 July 2026.
Within the statutory warranty period, a product should be repaired rather than replaced, provided that repair is economically equivalent or cheaper. If the consumer opts for a repair as remedy during the warranty period, the statutory warranty period for the product is extended accordingly.
Manufacturers of certain product groups listed in Annex II to the Directive – such as washing machines, vacuum cleaners, smartphones and tablets – are obliged to repair faulty appliances, upon the consumer’s request, even after the statutory liability period has expired. The repair must be carried out at a reasonable price and within a reasonable period of time. Manufacturers must also make information on their repair services available to consumers free of charge and in a clear and easily understandable manner.
Even though not all Member States have yet completed the transposition of the Directive, manufacturers and importers should assess and prepare for the new requirements in the Member States concerned and comply with the applicable national implementing provisions once they take effect. Where transposition has not yet been completed, the current status and expected implementation timeline should be clarified.
It is important to take account of country-specific particularities in the transposition process. These may include, for example, aspects such as the extension of the statutory liability period following a repair beyond one year, or establishment of a national online platform for repairs. Furthermore, the information provided to consumers (whether on websites or in general terms and conditions) should be updated to reflect the new repair rights and services.
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