The great blackout that affected Portugal and Spain last Monday, from 11:30 am, brought not only embarrassment at airports, traffic congestion and intense traffic in large cities. For many consumers, the effects extended indoors, with the damage of appliances caused by energy failures.
According to the organization Deco protestsan electrical interruption can damage computers, televisions, washing machines and other devices.
In these cases, the consumer can and must submit a complaint to be compensated under the Consumer Protection Law.
How the right to compensation works
According to the same source, Article 12 of the Consumer Protection Law states that “the consumer is entitled to compensation for property and non -property damage resulting from the supply of defective goods or benefits.”
Electricity, being considered an essential public service, requires the guarantee of the quality of the goods and services provided, writes the newspaper CNN Portugal.
In situations of widespread failures, such as the one that occurred, there are legal mechanisms that protect the consumer.
According to the same source, responsibility for the damage caused in appliances can be claimed to the service suppliers.
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Complaining can be simpler than it seems
Adds the publication that the safest way to submit a complaint is in writing, through registered mail or by email.
The exposure should clearly identify who sends the recipient, the date and accurately describe the facts that occurred.
It is also essential to keep copies of everything sent, refers to the same source.
A It offers, on your site, complaint models that can facilitate this process.
According to the same source, using a well -structured letter can be decisive for the resolution of the conflict in favor of the consumer.
If the service provider does not respond or refuse to take responsibility, the consumer may also resort to consumer conflict arbitration centers, explains the site CNN Portugal.
Blackout still without official explanation
The cut in the electric supply on Monday affected vast areas of Portugal and Spain and, so far, the authorities have not yet advanced with an official explanation of the causes.
According to the newspaper CNN Portugalthe restoration of energy was being progressively done throughout the day, starting in the center of the country.
This interruption has evidenced the importance of consumers to know their rights in cases of essential services.
According to the same source, the existence of consumer protection legislation ensures that no one is helpless when the losses of appliances knock on the door.
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