Starting this Monday, Quebec’s latest ‘good working order’ warranty comes into effect, offering consumers the perk of free repairs for certain goods that may malfunction within a specified period after purchase.
This warranty is just one of the outcomes stemming from the approval of the Law safeguarding consumers against planned obsolescence and advocating for the longevity, repairability, and maintenance of products in 2023.
Covering a wide range of products, including household appliances and electronic gadgets, this warranty ensures that if a covered item encounters issues or ceases to function during the designated warranty timeframe, the consumer has the right to request a complimentary repair from the retailer or manufacturer. The warranty is automatically included with the purchase of the eligible product at no extra cost.
For appliances like stoves, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and heat pumps, the warranty spans six years. Washers, dryers, and dishwashers are covered for five years, while televisions enjoy a four-year warranty. Computers, video game consoles, cell phones, and tablets are protected for a duration of three years.
In case a covered product purchased or rented malfunctions within the specified timeframe, consumers can reach out to the merchant or manufacturer for assistance.
To avail of a free repair, customers must provide proof that the item failed to function correctly during the warranty period, which commences from the delivery date.
The warranty encompasses parts, labor, and reasonable shipping or transportation costs but excludes damages resulting from product misuse or normal maintenance.
Should a consumer face resistance from the retailer or manufacturer, they have the option to lodge a complaint with the Consumer Protection Office.
Although this initiative has drawn mixed reactions, with some major economic bodies cautioning about potential cost implications, Quebec residents can now benefit from added consumer protection measures alongside the challenges posed by tariffs and trade disputes.
