It is particularly annoying when a device that is not even a year old suddenly has defects. But from January 1, 2022 something will change with the so-called Shifting the burden of proof. You can read here what it is and what advantages it can bring you.
Reversal of the burden of proof: Change from January 1, 2022
If you buy a new cell phone or a new laptop, you get a two-year warranty. If a material defect occurs within the first six months, it can be assumed that the device was already defective when it was purchased. In this case, the so-called reversal of the burden of proof applies. From January 1, 2022 something will change here. The reversal of the burden of proof increases from six months to one year.
This is an advantage for consumers: inside. The reason: From next year onwards, it is assumed that the within a year occurred at the time of purchase. Manufacturers have to prove that the device worked perfectly when it was sold. After more than a year, the burden of proof lies with the consumer.
“The following applies to all contracts concluded from January 1st, 2022: The reversal of the burden of proof in sales law will be extended from the previous six months to one year. For consumers, this has the advantage that in the first year after receipt of the goods it is assumed that a defect is an initial material defect and warranty rights can therefore be asserted. “
So the consumer advice center NRW
So if you want to buy a new cell phone, laptop or other device, it might be worth waiting the few weeks until the end of the year.
Tips & tricks for broken devices
Do you use your half-defective device for much longer and no longer have the right to reverse the burden of proof? Then it may be that it can still be “saved”. For example, if you want to repair your cell phone yourself, a few tools are essential. You may also be able to repair broken headphones. Does the remote control not work? This is how you can save her.
Sources: Federal Agency for Civic Education, North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Center