Trades welcome the right to repair: "Strong signal"

The right to repair is coming; the Federal Council has given its approval. "This is a strong signal for sustainability," says Kurt Krautscheid, President of the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts. For skilled tradespeople, repair is not a trend, but established practice.

This article is part of the special feature " Repair instead of discard".

The Federal Council has paved the way for the right to repair. Manufacturers of smartphones, tablets, refrigerators, or washing machines are now required to generally enable repairs and keep corresponding spare parts available throughout the product's lifespan. 

The law implements an EU directive to promote the repair of goods. It is scheduled to come into force on July 31 for most purchase contracts concluded from the end of July 2026 onwards.

Manufacturers will no longer be allowed to make repairs more difficult for independent workshops . This includes, for example, installing technology that makes repairs more difficult or impossible. Furthermore, they must offer spare parts and suitable tools for repairs at a reasonable price.

"This conserves resources, avoids waste and strengthens the regional economy"

Kurt Krautscheid, President of the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts, welcomes the new right to repair as a valuable measure for the regional economy, skilled trades, consumers, and the environment. Photo: © HwK Koblenz / Michael Jordan

Kurt Krautscheid, President of the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts , sees this as "a strong signal for greater sustainability and at the same time very good, valuable news for the skilled trades." He added that craft businesses have the knowledge and experience to professionally repair products and significantly extend their lifespan. "This conserves resources, avoids waste, and strengthens the regional economy," Krautscheid continued.

For them, repairing isn't a new trend, but rather a way of life. Those who repair instead of throwing away not only strengthen climate protection but also local tradespeople. "That makes it all the more important that this service is in even greater demand and valued in the future. The crucial thing now is that the law has a real impact in everyday life. Our businesses need fair access to spare parts, repair information, and diagnostic data. Then the right to repair will become a genuine benefit – for consumers, for the environment, and for local tradespeople."

Extended warranty period and replacement devices

As an incentive for consumers to have a device repaired, the warranty is extended in the event of a repair, among other measures: 

✔️ If the buyer chooses to have the device repaired instead of buying a new one, the existing warranty period is extended by another year.

✔️ In addition, consumers should be able to receive a replacement device for the duration of the repair.

Sources: Federal Council; Chamber of Skilled Crafts (HwK) Koblenz

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