New legal warranty now covers several appliances and electronics in Quebec
Quebec consumers who purchase certain new appliances and electronic devices now automatically benefit from a free legal warranty lasting between three and six years.
The new garantie de bon fonctionnement, or good working order warranty, came into effect on October 5 under Quebec’s Consumer Protection Act.
The Office de la protection du consommateur launched an information campaign on October 13 to explain how the new protection works.
Coverage lasts from three to six years
The duration of the warranty depends on the type of product and begins on the date the item is delivered.
Stoves, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners and heat pumps are covered for six years.
Washers, dryers and dishwashers are covered for five years, while televisions are covered for four years.
Laptops, desktop computers, video game consoles, cellphones and tablets are covered for three years.
The warranty applies automatically to eligible new products purchased or rented from a merchant on or after October 5, 2026.
Repairs may be available at no cost
If a covered product stops working or does not function properly while the warranty is still in effect, consumers may be entitled to a free repair.
The Office says consumers can contact either the merchant or the manufacturer. Neither can require the customer to deal exclusively with the other.
The merchant or manufacturer must arrange the repair or may authorize the consumer to have it repaired at their expense.
Keep proof of the delivery date
Because the coverage period begins when the product is delivered, the Office recommends keeping documents showing that date.
This can include an invoice, delivery confirmation email, delivery slip or receipt.
Merchants are also required to display the applicable warranty period near the product’s price, including in stores, online or in advertising.
If an additional warranty is offered, the merchant must also inform the consumer about the legal good working order warranty when it applies.
The Office says extending the useful life of appliances through repair can also help reduce waste.
(A.G.M)
