How long is your warranty really? Not always 2 years.
There's no fixed period. A product has to last as long as you can reasonably expect. That depends on what it is, what it cost and how you use it. For expensive products, like an expensive laptop or washing machine, the ACM says that can be 5 to 8 years.
How it works
There are two kinds of warranty:
- The manufacturer’s or shop’s warranty. Often 1 or 2 years. They decide what’s in it.
- Your legal warranty. You always have it. A product has to do what you can expect, for as long as you can expect.
Has the manufacturer’s warranty ended? Your legal rights are still there.
Per type of product
- Washing machine, dryer, fridge, dishwasher. Big appliances you use for years. For an expensive model the legal warranty can be 5 to 8 years, according to the ACM.
- Laptop. Here too the ACM mentions 5 to 8 years for an expensive laptop. A cheap laptop doesn’t have to last as long.
- Television. A TV that breaks after 2 years without you doing anything wrong? Ask the shop for a solution.
- Phone. A €1,000 phone should last longer than a €150 one. Damage from drops or water isn’t covered.
- Small appliances, like an air fryer, hairdryer or kettle. These also have to last a reasonable time. The more expensive, the more you can expect.
These aren’t fixed numbers. It always depends on the price, the brand, what was promised and how you use it. Electronics shops often work with a table of how long products last. Ask about it.
The tricky part
After 2 years almost everyone thinks it’s over. You don’t even look for your receipt any more. And that’s exactly when you need it. See warranty over, now what? for an example email to the shop.
Your TV goes black after 2 years and 3 months. The shop says: warranty over, sorry. You think that's right, and buy a new one. While you may simply have been entitled to a repair.
Often asked
Is the legal warranty 2 years?
No. In the Netherlands there's no fixed period. The 2 years you often hear about is the manufacturer's or shop's warranty. That comes on top of your legal rights.
How long should a washing machine or laptop last?
It isn't written in the law. According to the ACM it can be 5 to 8 years for expensive products, such as an expensive laptop or washing machine. For a cheap appliance you can expect less.
Who has to prove it's a manufacturing fault?
In the first year after purchase, the shop has to prove it was caused by you. After that, you have to show that the product is at fault. A statement from a repairer helps.
Do I go to the manufacturer or the shop?
To the shop where you bought it. They have to solve it. You may also use a manufacturer's warranty, but you don't have to.
Does this also apply to a battery that wears out sooner?
Normal wear and tear isn't covered. If a battery deteriorates much faster than you could expect with normal use, it may be a defect. It depends on the case.