Consumers have often encountered various problems when requesting repair of their appliances. Be it a washing machine, a car, a telephone… there are many objects that can break unexpectedly and complicate things. If you have devices that have been around for several years, it is possible that when trying to repair them you have come across the answer: “It is discontinued and there are no longer any replacement parts”, which forces you to buy a new one. However, it seems that we are getting closer to a solution.
The European Union has approved the right to repair. This measure seeks to guarantee that manufacturers provide good quality repair services and as long as it is demanded by consumers who have hired the company. Therefore, companies must inform each of the contractors what their rights as a consumer are, and apply them legally.
The measure is designed to reinforce customer security. Once the product warranty has ended, companies must be responsible for repairing products considered common, such as washing machines or vacuum cleaners. In the event of a delay, the customer may request a substitute product until the original is repaired, and if repair is not available, the customer must receive a new part.
In addition to these consumer rights, the EU will offer a new platform that will help consumers evaluate the nature of the defect, the price of the repair and how long it may take. Along with this, there will be access to a database that will offer consumers local repair shops, sellers of refurbished products, and even community repair options.
Benefits for consumers
This measure has a double objective. Firstly, it seeks to stimulate the European repairs market. By offering quality services at an affordable price, the institution hopes to make available to consumers the necessary means to reduce the compulsive purchasing of objects and support the repair of all defective objects.
Secondly, the change will try to reduce family spending. With multiple competitive options, European families will be able to choose from a large number of products and insurance, which will protect the company’s support for families and will serve to obtain much better quality products for an equal or even better price.
Consequently, member states must apply at least one measure that supports this decision and helps continue the national and international repair market. Among the measures, which must be supported by information campaigns, may be vouchers, repair funds, repair courses or supporting community repair spaces.
