The European Parliament on Tuesday passed a proposal for a “right to redress” for consumers by 590 votes to 15 with 15 abstentions. With this proposal, the MEPs want to encourage the simplification of the repair of defective goods and support the repair sector. This is the negotiating position for new rules that strengthen the right to compensation.

MEPs: manufacturers should lend customers replacement devices during repairs

According to a statement by the European Parliament, during the legal warranty period, sellers will have to give priority to repair if it is cheaper or equal to the cost of replacement, except when repair is not possible or will cause inconvenience to the consumer. The MEPs also propose to extend the legal warranty period for one year after the repair of the product.

After the warranty expires, consumers will have the right to request repairs for products such as washing machines, vacuum cleaners, mobile phones and bicycles. To make repairs a more attractive option for consumers, MEPs are proposing that manufacturers lend customers replacement devices while repairs are being carried out. If the product cannot be repaired, a repaired product may be offered instead.

Incentives to choose repair

According to MEPs, consumers are reluctant to request product repair for various reasons: high cost, difficult access to repair services or the fact that the product is designed in a way that prevents repair. According to Parliament’s position, independent repairers, repair service providers and end-users will have access at a reasonable cost to all spare parts, information and tools needed to carry out repairs.

Online platforms will help consumers find local repair services (including “repair cafes”, i.e. places where various volunteers offer their repair services) and sellers of refurbished goods in the area. To make repairs more attractive and affordable, MEPs propose providing consumers with vouchers and other financial incentives through national repair funds.

After the Rada adopts its negotiating position on November 22, it will be possible to start negotiations with the Parliament. The first meeting will be held on December 7.

Every year in the European Union, 30 million tons of resources are used, 261 million tons of CO2 equivalent are produced and 35 million tons of waste are generated. Consumers who choose to replace a product instead of repairing it lose about 12 billion euros annually. According to a study by the European Commission, 77% of European Union citizens would rather repair a broken product than buy a new one.

The “Right to Repair” proposal complements the EU’s initiatives on eco-design and empowering consumers in the transition to “green” products.

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Ray Tang / Shutterstock Editorial / Profimedia