Repair is a Right
Canada’s New Legal Tool to Fight Repair Restrictions
Told You Can’t Fix What You Own?
That May Be Illegal.
Canadian consumers, farmers, repair shops, and small businesses have long faced barriers when trying to fix their own products, from locked software to unavailable parts. Now, thanks to a major change in Canada’s competition law, there’s finally a legal way to fight back.
What’s New:
In 2024, Canada amended its Competition Act, allowing private citizens, businesses, and advocacy groups to bring cases directly to the Competition Tribunal when companies abuse their market power. That includes blocking your right to repair.
Examples of Potential Violations:
- Manufacturers refusing to sell parts or diagnostic tools
- Tractors and devices locked by software unless serviced by the original company
- Warranties voided for using independent repair services
- “Tied selling” — making repairs conditional on other purchases
Who Can Be Affected:
- Farmers unable to repair equipment during harvest because of lack of authorized repair shops
- Consumers forced to replace electronics they could otherwise fix
- Independent repair shops losing business because they are unable to use authorized software or tools
- Small businesses and municipalities stuck with broken tools or facing inflated repair bills
You Have Power.
We Can Help You Use It.
We are currently reviewing potential cases. If you’ve been blocked from fixing your own equipment — or helping others fix theirs — we want to hear from you.
Submit your story using the form below or contact us at classactions@sotos.ca.