Code de la Consommation (Consumer Code)

Introduction

The Code de la Consommation codifies French consumer protection law. The Code provides comprehensive protections for consumers in transactions with professionals, including rights of withdrawal, prohibitions on unfair terms, and rules against aggressive commercial practices.

Right of Withdrawal

Consumers have a 14-day right of withdrawal (droit de rétractation) for distance and off-premises contracts without giving any reason. The right does not apply to certain contracts such as customized goods, perishable goods, and sealed goods unsealed after delivery.

Unfair Contract Terms

Contract terms that create a significant imbalance between the rights and obligations of the parties are considered abusive (clauses abusives) and are deemed unwritten. The Consumer Code includes a list of presumptively unfair terms and a list of absolutely prohibited terms.

Enforcement

The Direction Generale de la Concurrence, de la Consommation et de la Repression des Fraudes (DGCCRF) enforces consumer law. Consumer associations may bring group actions (actions de groupe). Criminal penalties apply for the most serious violations.