Does New York law require a written warranty for consumer products?

What the Law Says

New York General Business Law (GBL) governs warranties for consumer products sold in the state. While it does not require sellers to provide written warranties, it regulates how they must be drafted and disclosed when offered.

New York law does not force businesses to give written warranties. However, if a seller chooses to offer one, it must be clear, conspicuous, and comply with both state and federal rules.

Under GBL § 198-b, any written warranty for a consumer product must disclose its terms fully and conspicuously — including duration, coverage, and how to obtain service or repair. It also prohibits deceptive or misleading language.

Even without a written warranty, New York enforces implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. These arise automatically in most sales and generally last at least one year unless disclaimed properly — and even then, only in limited circumstances.

Statutory Text

No written warranty shall be deemed to be full unless it meets the requirements of this section and provides that the warrantor will remedy any defect, malfunction, or failure to conform with the written warranty within a reasonable time and without charge.

— General Business Law § 198-b(1) — Written warranties

Statutory Text

Every warranty, whether express or implied, shall be construed as extending to the buyer's successors in interest who are natural persons and who use the goods for personal, family or household purposes.

— General Business Law § 198-b(3) — Warranty extension

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