Quebec’s consumer protections updated to ensure good working order of products

Updated Quebec consumer protection rules now allow consumers to demand retailers or manufacturers repair some products that fail within three to six years after they were purchased.

The new warranty requirements apply to 14 different categories of products purchased on or after Oct. 5.

The changes were proposed in legislation adopted by the Quebec legislature in 2023.

The new rules say consumers can demand free repairs for defective appliances such as air conditioners, heat pumps, refrigerators or stoves if they are less than six years old.

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The warranty applies for up to five years for washers, dryers and dishwashers and up to four years for televisions.

Retailers or manufacturers are now required to repair defective computers, smartphones or tablets for up to three years.

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The legislation calculates the age of an appliance or product based on its date of delivery.

Consumers can file complaints with Quebec’s consumer protection agency if a retailer or manufacturer refuses to complete a repair.

Several manufacturers have recently told retailers they would be increasing their prices on the affected products as a result of the new warranty requirements.

Quebec already has a legal guarantee that requires manufacturers to ensure their products have a reasonable lifespan, but it can require a consumer to go to court to get repairs or compensation.

The new warranty would not apply to damage to a product caused by a consumer or require compensation for expected maintenance.