State Law in Maine Can Save You a Little Cash

So, you're at the checkout getting ready to purchase that new washing machine and the cashier asks you if you'd like to purchase an extended service contract or warranty.

The Maine Attorney General's office suggests you first consider Maine's Express and Implied Warranty Law.

Most consumer goods, with the exception of used cars, are covered by Maine law if the product stops working because of a manufacturer's defect.

Joan Beckerman with the Attorney General's office says the warranty is good for the usable life of the product, up to four years, provided you haven't abused the product.

The state's law also covers online purchases as well through the Maine Long Arm statute which allows enforcement against out of state sellers.

So if you have a product meant for home or personal use that isn't working the way the manufacturer said it would you might be covered by Maine law and you should consult the AG's office, and think twice about whether or not you want to spend the money on that extended service contract at the checkout.

The AG's office clarifies that you might want the extra protection on electronics to cover mishaps not considered a manufacturer's defect.

For more details you can check out the Consumers Law Guide online or call the AG's Consumer Protection Division at 800-436-2131