The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has issued a call to action for sellers of consumer electronics and large domestic appliances to enhance their compliance with warranty regulations. Each year, ACM receives thousands of consumer reports highlighting issues with warranty claims, indicating a significant gap in adherence to the rules.

ACM's Director of Consumer Department, Edwin van Houten, emphasized that many sellers mistakenly believe that a consumer's warranty rights expire after two years. This misconception leads to various problems for consumers attempting to exercise their warranty rights, as reflected in the complaints received by ACM's consumer information portal, ACM ConsuWijzer.

Common issues reported by consumers include sellers incorrectly stating that warranties end after two years, referring consumers to manufacturers instead of handling claims themselves, and charging unjust fees for repairs that should be covered under warranty. Additionally, sellers often fail to provide suitable alternatives after repeated unsuccessful repairs.

In response, ACM has provided examples to clarify how warranty rules should be applied and has given businesses a three-month period to adjust their procedures accordingly. If compliance is not achieved, ACM may impose enforcement actions, including fines.

ACM also noted the importance of establishing realistic expected lifespans for products, which is currently being discussed among market participants. Furthermore, the authority aims to enhance consumer awareness regarding their warranty rights through its information portal, ensuring that consumers are informed about their entitlements when products fail.

A well-functioning warranty system is crucial for promoting sustainability, as it encourages manufacturers and sellers to produce high-quality, durable products, ultimately reducing waste and extending product lifespans.