Italy enforces right to repair for common electronics
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Starting today, Italy implemented a new law giving consumers greater rights to repair their electronics, following a European Union directive.
The law amends Italy’s Consumer Code and applies to appliances like washing machines, refrigerators, televisions, and smartphones. Manufacturers must now repair devices even after the standard two-year warranty expires, unless the repair is impossible, and can charge a reasonable price or offer a refurbished replacement.
Consumers purchasing items from July 31, 2026, with defects covered by warranty can choose between repair or replacement. If they choose repair, the warranty extends for an additional year. Manufacturers also have to make spare parts available at reasonable prices and publish repair cost information on their websites. The law allows consumers to use independent repair shops, and manufacturers cannot block the use of used, compatible, or 3D-printed replacement parts.
Repair technicians can use a standard European repair information form detailing the issue, cost, and expected duration of the repair, with quotes valid for 30 days. By July 31, 2027, a European online platform will launch to connect consumers with local repair shops and refurbished goods vendors. Companies that violate these rules may face fines between 5,000 and 50,000 euros per infraction, assessed by the Italian Competition Authority.
