Starting today, the European “right to repair” comes into force, aiming to extend the lifespan of household appliances, smartphones, and various electronics that, despite technical faults, can still be restored.
This follows Italy’s integration of the relevant EU legislation, designed to incentivize product restoration, prevent premature disposal, and curb planned obsolescence. Under these regulations—which retroactively cover items bought on or after July 31, 2026—manufacturers are legally bound to fix faulty products that remain technically restorable, even after the standard warranty period expires. Repair technicians are also required to supply customers with a standardized European information sheet prior to starting work. This document outlines costs, estimated turnaround times, specific service details, and loaner options, with all terms binding for 30 days.
Repairs must be carried out promptly and either free of charge or at a fair cost. If an item cannot be restored, manufacturers may offer a refurbished alternative. For foreign companies operating outside the EU, this repair obligation transfers to their designated EU representative or importer. Additionally, spare parts and necessary tools must be offered at accessible prices so as not to discourage repair efforts.
Should a defective product undergo repair while still covered by its initial guarantee, the seller’s legal liability period extends by an additional 12 months once the item is returned. Furthermore, an official European digital portal will launch by July 31, 2027, connecting consumers with local repair shops and refurbished goods vendors.
These changes carry a major impact for consumers, manufacturers, and the environment alike, as throwing away fixable items currently contributes to 35 million tons of European waste annually, bringing heavy environmental and social consequences.
