Right to repair legislation
Industry charity Electrical Safety First has commented on the Government's planned 'right to repair' legislation, introduced in March 2021. Under the laws, manufacturers will be legally obliged to make spare parts for products (such as washing machines, dishwashers and other appliances) directly available to consumers. The Government says the aim of new rules is to extend the lifespan of products by up to 10 years and save consumers an average of £75 a year on bills over their lifetimes.
Lesley Rudd, chief executive of Electrical Safety First, said, “This well-intentioned green policy must consider the unintended consequences on consumer safety. Consumers should not attempt to repair their electrical appliances without the knowledge to do so safely. Poor repair work can lead to an increased risk of fire, or electric shock."
Rudd added, "The Government should give serious thought as to who can carry out these repairs. At present, consumers cannot refer to a register of competent, third-party professionals, to get the job done. This risks incompetent repairers causing more damage to the products – and potential harm to consumers.
"While changes to product design can make repair work easier in the long term, currently, some appliances are simply too complex for the average consumer to safely fix themselves. A network of competent repairers, approved by manufacturers, must be introduced if this well-intentioned policy is to benefit – and protect – consumers.”
This article originally appeared on the ECA website under the headline, 'ESF concern over "right to repair" laws'. It was published on 12 March 2021.
--ECA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Amendment 3 BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations IET Wiring Regulations.
- Appliance.
- Articles by the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA).
- Electrical appliance.
- Electrical safety.
- Repair definition.
- Smart kitchen appliances.
[edit] External references
Featured articles and news
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.