Afkølingslov

Afkølingslov, literally a cooling-off law, is a term used in Danish-language discussions to describe a regulatory framework that would give consumers a window after entering into a contract during which they may cancel the agreement without penalty. The concept mirrors the broader aim of consumer protection: to prevent pressured or impulse decisions and to align Danish practice with EU norms on the right of withdrawal.

A typical afkølingslov would apply to consumer contracts concluded at a distance (such as online purchases) or off premises (for example door-to-door sales). It would establish a withdrawal period, commonly around 14 days, during which the consumer can notify the seller of withdrawal and return goods in the received condition, with a refund provided within a defined time frame. The law would set requirements for how withdrawal must be communicated, how refunds are handled, and how digital content and services are treated if performance has not fully occurred. It would also specify exemptions, including customized goods, perishable items, or contracts for urgent or ongoing services where performance has begun with the consumer’s consent.

In relation to existing Danish law, afkølingslov would be intended to complement the fortrydelsesret and EU consumer-directive protections, but it is not an enacted statute in Denmark as of now. Debates around such a law typically address balance between stronger consumer rights and the administrative or compliance costs for businesses, as well as the need for clear scope and remedies.

See also: Fortrydelsesret, Cooling-off period, Consumer protection.