When does the burden of proof shift to the buyer for defects?

What the Law Says

German consumer law generally protects buyers by placing the burden of proof on the seller for defects — but only for a limited time after delivery. Section 476 of the German Civil Code (BGB) sets the key rule: if a defect becomes apparent within one year of delivery, it is legally presumed to have existed at the time of delivery, and the seller must disprove that presumption.

This presumption applies automatically in consumer contracts (i.e., when a private person buys from a business). It does not apply to business-to-business sales.

Before 2022, the presumption period was six months. The reform extended it to one year to better protect consumers — especially for complex or latent defects that may take time to surface.

After one year, the burden shifts to the buyer: they must prove the defect existed at the time of delivery — which is often difficult without expert evidence or documentation.

Statutory Text

Auf eine vor Mitteilung eines Mangels an den Unternehmer getroffene Vereinbarung, die zum Nachteil des Verbrauchers von den §§ 433 bis 435, 437, 439 bis 441 und 443 sowie von den Vorschriften dieses Untertitels abweicht, kann der Unternehmer sich nicht berufen.

— BGB § 476 — German Civil Code

What Courts Have Said

German courts consistently uphold the pro-consumer presumption under § 476 BGB — especially where defects emerge early and relate to core functionality or safety.

What to Do

Sources

Related Questions