Right to repair
With the right to repair, the European Union is promoting repairs as an alternative to buying new products, thereby pursuing key objectives of the circular economy. This creates new regulatory requirements for manufacturers, retailers and importers – particularly with regard to repair obligations, spare parts availability and information requirements for consumers. The basis for this is EU Directive 2024/1799 ("Right to Repair") on promoting the repair of goods, which has been in force since 30 July 2024 and must be transposed into national law by Member States by 31 July 2026.
For companies, the regulation entails considerable organisational and legal requirements. Manufacturers may be obliged to repair certain products even outside the statutory warranty period, provided that repair is technically possible and economically reasonable. At the same time, consumers are to be given easier access to repair services – among other things through a European repair platform, standardised repair forms and greater transparency regarding repair options and costs. Companies must therefore review their after-sales structures, spare parts availability, service processes and information obligations and adapt them accordingly, for example by providing repair information and recommended prices on their websites.
Our solicitors advise companies on the legally compliant implementation of the new requirements, analyse the extent to which companies are affected by the new requirements and provide support in adapting processes, contracts and compliance structures.
Our main areas of activity in relation to Directive (EU) 2024/1799
Classification of products within the scope of the EU Directive on the right to repair
Advice on manufacturers' repair obligations, in particular outside the statutory warranty period
Legal review of information obligations regarding repair options, spare parts and recommended prices on manufacturer websites
Advice on participation in the European repair platform and the associated transparency and information obligations
Support in the legally compliant design of repair, service and after-sales structures
Drafting and adapting contracts with dealers, service partners and repair shops
Advice on spare parts availability and repair obligations along the supply chain
Review of interfaces with warranty law, product safety law and eco-design requirements
Advice on warranty conditions, exchange programmes and refurbishment concepts
Representation before market surveillance authorities and in consumer law disputes
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