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Stop the “disposable” consumption model, reduce electronic waste and promote the circular economy. These are the objectives of the “Right to repair” which comes into force today in Italy. The legislation officially transposes the European Union directive through legislative decree no. 176/2026. The new rules introduce the obligation for manufacturers to repair household appliances and technological devices even out of warranty, putting a definitive stop to the practice of planned obsolescence.
The estimated impact and next steps
The impact estimated by the European Commission when fully operational is very significant on both the economic and environmental front: a saving of 12 billion euros per year is expected for European citizens and a net cut of 35 million tonnes of electronic waste, accompanied by a reduction of 261 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.
The next step of the reform involves the debut, by 2027, of a single online platform to allow citizens to compare tariffs and repair services in real time.
What changes for producers
Going into detail, companies will no longer be able to refuse technical interventions unless objectively impossible, and will have to guarantee the availability of spare parts for a period of between 5 and 10 years after the product leaves the market. The monopoly on repairs will also collapse: manufacturers will be banned from using software or hardware blocks to prevent the use of compatible, used or 3D printed spare parts, and will have to provide components and technical instructions even to independent repairers at reasonable prices.
Incentives for consumers
Furthermore, strong incentives are provided for consumers. Anyone who chooses repair rather than replacement during the legal warranty period will benefit from an automatic extension of coverage for a further 12 months. Not only that, the assistance centers will be required to offer a replacement courtesy device to eliminate inconvenience during waiting times.
The affected products
In short, less waste, less emissions but also saving money for citizens. The repairability obligation starts immediately for a selected list of key products: smartphones, tablets, washing machines, washer-dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, televisions, displays and vacuum cleaners.