Starting on October 5th, a new regulation in Quebec will ensure that customers are informed about the availability of parts and repairs for products such as toasters and microwaves. This initiative, brought about by Bill 29 enacted in 2023, aims to promote durability, maintenance, and repairability of products to prevent them from becoming obsolete.
Under the new law, retailers and manufacturers must disclose whether they guarantee the availability of replacement parts, repair services, and information for their products. This move has received mixed reactions from consumer groups, with some applauding the overdue changes while others express concerns about the practical implications.
Alexandre Fallon, a partner at law firm Osler, emphasized the challenges faced by merchants and manufacturers in complying with the disclosure requirements. Damien Silès, from the Retail Council of Quebec, highlighted the need to combat planned obsolescence but raised concerns about the complexities and burdens placed on retailers by the new regulations.
The legislation mandates that manufacturers and retailers, even those based outside Quebec, must ensure the availability of spare parts, provide repair information, and uphold consumers’ rights to choose their repair service provider. However, Fallon pointed out the significant hurdles for retailers in managing the vast array of products and associated disclosures.
As the implementation of Bill 29 draws near, retailers in Quebec are navigating a complex regulatory environment amidst other challenges such as tariffs and logistical issues. Silès called for collaboration between the government and retailers to address practical concerns and ensure effective implementation of the law.
Despite the noble intentions behind the legislation, Fallon cautioned that the stringent requirements could make Quebec a more challenging jurisdiction for businesses, both local and foreign. The Consumer Protection Act includes penalties and the threat of class actions, adding further pressure on retailers and manufacturers to comply with the new regulations.
Keyphrase: Quebec product repair law
