Implied warranty law helps Sanford couple get new washing machine; it can help you, too
SANFORD (WGME) — The CBS 13 I-Team is getting results for a Sanford couple struggling to get their defective washing machine fixed.
For months Larry and Paula Thibodeau tried to get results using Maine's Implied Warranty Law, but they were having a tough time so they contacted the I-Team.
"Every time I turned it on, the old one, it was like OK let's see what's going to happen, a banging noise or stop completely," Paula Thibodeau said.
We were there today as they were setting up their brand new washing machine.
After our story aired two weeks ago, the seller agreed to replace their washing machine — for free — and it was delivered this past weekend.
They used our state's Implied Warranty Law, which says most everything you buy in Maine comes with a 4-year warranty, but many consumers and retailers are still often confused about how it works.
Attorney General Janet Mills uses this 3-part test:
- You have to show the item is poorly designed or seriously defective
- You have not abused it
- The item was purchased less than 4 years ago and is still within its normally expected useful life (for a washer, that estimate in the Maine consumer guide is 12 to 14 years)
"I'm glad it's over after 5 months, thanks to you guys. It is over we got the new machine. We wouldn't have got it if it hadn't been for you guys," Larry Thibodeau said.
The Attorney General's Office says it's always best to put your claim in writing.
The only exception to this law is used cars that are sold as is.