Quebec's New Right-to-Repair Law Takes Effect, Challenging Planned Obsolescence

QUÉBEC – Starting today, Quebec consumers gain new protections against the frustration of planned obsolescence as the province's groundbreaking durable goods legislation takes effect. The new rules represent a significant shift in how retailers approach product longevity and repairability.

What Changes for Consumers

The legislation, originally passed by the provincial legislature on October 3, 2023, now requires retailers to provide repair services and make spare parts available for durable goods. This means that instead of replacing entire appliances or electronics when a single component fails, Quebec residents will have the right to access affordable repairs.

Marie Tremblay, a Montreal resident who has struggled with appliance repairs, welcomes the change. "Last year, my washing machine's motor failed just after the warranty expired," she shared. "The repair cost was almost as much as a new machine. This law gives us hope that we can actually fix things rather than constantly replacing them."

Environmental Impact

Environmental advocates see this as a crucial step toward reducing electronic waste. Quebec generates approximately 240,000 tonnes of electronic waste annually, much of which could be avoided with better repair options.

"This isn't just about saving money—it's about changing our relationship with consumption," explained Jean-Luc Dubois, sustainability director at Éco-Québec. "When products are designed to be repaired rather than replaced, we reduce waste, conserve resources, and build a more circular economy."

Industry Response

Retailers and manufacturers have been preparing for these changes over the past two years. Many have expanded their repair networks and trained technicians, though some smaller businesses have expressed concerns about the costs of compliance.

"We're committed to supporting our customers through this transition," said Sophie Chen, spokesperson for a major electronics retailer. "It's an opportunity to build longer-lasting relationships with our customers based on service rather than just sales."

Looking Ahead

As Quebec leads this charge in North America, other provinces and states are watching closely. Similar legislation is being considered in Ontario and several U.S. states, suggesting this could be the beginning of a broader movement toward repair-friendly consumer protection laws.

For now, Quebec consumers can look forward to more options when their devices fail—and perhaps fewer trips to the landfill.

Read the original reporting on Global News