New Legal Warranty Ensures Products in Good Working Order in Montreal

Starting October 5, 2026, a new legal warranty in Quebec requires retailers and manufacturers to guarantee products sold on or after that date are in good working order. This change affects 14 categories of products, offering consumers the right to demand free repairs for defects within three to six years of purchase.

For appliances like air conditioners, heat pumps, and refrigerators, the warranty period is six years. For washers, dryers, and dishwashers, it’s five years, while televisions get four years of coverage. Computers, smartphones, and tablets are covered for up to three years.

Consumers can file complaints with Quebec's consumer protection agency if repairs are refused. While this is a positive step for expats and digital nomads, it's important to note that the warranty doesn't cover damage caused by consumers or expected maintenance. Some manufacturers might pass on the cost of these new requirements by increasing product prices.

For those living in or visiting Montreal, this new warranty means you have more leverage when dealing with product defects. If you encounter issues with a product purchased after October 5, 2026, you can expect free repairs under this new legal framework.