Question: As a supplier what warranties do I need to consider for my products?
Answer:You need to consider both statutory and contractual warranties. For example, you should ask yourself; has the manufacturer voluntarily provided extra warranties above those set out in Australian Consumer Law (ACL), Schedule 2 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth)? Both suppliers and manufacturers, if they choose to provide the consumer with a voluntary warranty against defects, must comply with that warranty. If a supplier or manufacturer does not meet the warranty, the consumer is entitled to bring an action against them under the ACL or for a breach of contract.
The guarantee in relation to express warranties applies to both suppliers and manufacturers and they must comply with any express warranty given or made by them in relation to the goods (s59 of ACL). Therefore if you provide an express warranty you must comply with it. For example, if a toaster comes with a written warranty saying the manufacturer will replace the toaster, or parts of it up to 2 years after the purchase date and it breaks 1 year after the purchase date, then whomever provided the warranty must meet the warranty.
