
Companies selling products to consumers in the EU must provide a 2-year legal guarantee. In short, products are expected to meet reasonable and expected quality standards at the time of delivery.
If this fails, then the consumer can be entitled to a free repair, replacement or even a refund (full or partial).
But this should not be understood as an unconditional warranty or money-back guarantee. There are conditions that apply to both sellers and consumers under the Sale of Goods Directive (EU) 2019/771.
This guide provides the following:
1. A breakdown of articles under the Sale of Goods Directive (EU) 2019/771 that set requirements concerning the 2-year legal guarantee
2. Case studies explaining when a consumer can and cannot make a claim:
- Wristwatch
- Espresso machine
- T-shirt
3. Frequently asked questions
Note: Starting on 27 September 2026, sellers must inform consumers about their right to a 2-year legal guarantee using a harmonised notice. This notice must be present in online stores and in physical stores.












