What takes effect in Italy

Italy's right to repair came into force on 22 October 2026, transposing EU directive 2024/1799 through legislative decree n. 176/2026. The rules apply retroactively to goods bought from 31 July 2026. The association Assoutenti, which has publicised the changes, says the aim is to extend product life, cut electronic waste and counter planned obsolescence. The reform also seeks to move consumers away from a throwaway model of consumption.

Producer obligations

Manufacturers must repair eligible goods even after the legal guarantee has expired, provided repair is technically possible. The work must be free or at a reasonable price and completed within a reasonable time. Where repair is impossible, the producer can offer a refurbished product instead. If the manufacturer is based outside the EU, the duty falls on its authorised representative in the EU or on the importer. Producers must also supply spare parts and tools at prices that do not discourage repair.

The rules bar software or hardware locks that block compatible, used or 3D-printed parts. Producers must provide components and technical instructions to independent repairers at reasonable prices. Spare parts must be available for 5 to 10 years after a product leaves the market. Service centres must offer a replacement device to cover customers while they wait.

Products covered

The obligation applies to 11 categories of products already regulated by EU repairability requirements. These include smartphones, tablets and cordless phones, washing machines, washer-dryers and dishwashers, refrigeration appliances and dryers, electronic displays and vacuum cleaners, servers and data storage systems, and means of transport with specific batteries. Adnkronos notes that the change places after-sales service at the centre of the relationship between producers, importers, distributors, retailers and consumers.

Warranty and the European repair form

When a buyer chooses repair over replacement during the legal guarantee, the seller's liability period is extended by 12 months from the date the product is repaired. Before starting work, the repairer must hand the consumer a European form covering the type of repair, the time needed, the prices and any substitute product. The information in that form stays valid for 30 days. Fabio Fasolino, chief executive of Business company, a firm that says it has worked in after-sales services for more than 26 years, said:

“The right to repair makes clear what the market is already showing: after-sales service is not a cost to manage but a strategic lever.”

Expected savings

The European Commission estimates that, at full application, the rules would save European citizens 12 billion euros a year. The same estimate puts the cut in electronic waste at 35 million tonnes and the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions at 261 million tonnes. A European online platform for finding repairers and sellers of refurbished goods must be set up by 31 July 2027.