Service Contract Requirements Romania – What Every Provider Must Include by Law

Service contracts in Romania must meet specific legal requirements under Government Order 21/1992 and related consumer protection laws. This comprehensive guide explains what Romanian law requires for valid service contracts, how ANPC enforces these rules, and what happens when businesses fail to comply.

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At our law firm, Atrium Romanian Lawyers, we assist clients with corporate & commercial law, contract drafting, and consumer protection advisory.

Test Your Service Contract Compliance

Use our interactive compliance checker below to verify that your service contract meets all Romanian legal requirements. This tool guides you through the 12 mandatory elements and helps you avoid ANPC penalties ranging from RON 2,000 to RON 100,000.

What Is a Service Contract Under Romanian Law?

Legal Definition

Under Romanian law, a service contract (contract de servicii) is an agreement where one party (the service provider) undertakes to provide specific services to another party (the consumer) in exchange for payment. Service contracts are governed by the Romanian Civil Code (Articles 1851-1874), Government Order 21/1992 on consumer protection, and Law 296/2004 (Consumer Code).

Types of Services Covered

Romanian service contract regulations apply to telecommunications and internet services, banking and financial services, utility services, professional services, maintenance and repair services, installation and delivery services, educational and training services, healthcare services, and transportation services.

Are Service Contracts Mandatory in Romania?

Yes, written service contracts are mandatory for most consumer-business transactions in Romania. According to Government Order 21/1992, service providers must formalize their agreements with consumers in writing, particularly when the service involves recurring payments, the contract duration exceeds 30 days, or the total value exceeds RON 100.

Mandatory Elements: What Must a Romanian Service Contract Contain?

1. Party Identification Requirements

Every service contract must clearly identify both parties. The service provider must include their legal business name, unique registration code (CUI), trade register number, physical headquarters address, and contact information. The consumer must include their full legal name, personal identification number (CNP) for individuals, and contact address.

2. Service Description Requirements

Contracts must provide detailed specifications including the exact nature of services, quality standards and performance metrics, delivery timeline and schedule, geographic service area, equipment or materials included, and technical specifications. According to ANPC regulations, vague or ambiguous service descriptions are considered non-compliant.

3. Pricing and Fee Disclosure

Complete transparency on all costs is mandatory. This includes the base service price, all additional fees (connection, activation, installation), taxes and surcharges (VAT, excise duties), recurring charges (monthly, annual), variable costs (usage-based fees), penalty fees (late payment, early termination), currency, payment methods accepted, and billing cycle and due dates. Key requirement: Prices must be displayed in 10-point font or larger.

4. Contract Duration and Renewal Terms

Contracts must specify the start date of service provision, contract duration (fixed term or indefinite), automatic renewal conditions, notice period for termination, early termination rights and associated costs, and grace periods if applicable.

5. Modification and Amendment Procedures

Romanian law requires clear procedures for contract changes. Service providers must provide 30 days written notice before any unilateral changes, specify the exact changes to terms or pricing, inform consumers of their right to reject changes, and allow penalty-free termination if consumer refuses modifications.

6. Service Suspension and Termination Rules

Contracts must outline conditions for service suspension by provider, consumer notification requirements (15 days advance notice), consumer’s right to unilateral termination (30 days notice, no penalties), provider penalties for failing to deliver promised services, refund procedures for prepaid services, and equipment return requirements.

7. Consumer Protection Clauses

Mandatory consumer rights provisions include withdrawal right (14 days for distance contracts), warranty and guarantee terms, complaint and dispute resolution procedures, service quality standards, compensation for provider-caused damages, data privacy protections, and right to refuse data processing for marketing purposes.

8. Liability and Indemnification

Contracts must clearly state the service provider’s liability for non-performance, consumer compensation rights for damages, force majeure provisions, and limitation of liability clauses that must be reasonable and non-abusive.

9. Dispute Resolution Mechanisms

Required information includes complaint filing procedures, internal complaint handling timeline, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) options, ANPC contact information, and court jurisdiction.

Penalties for Non-Compliant Service Contracts

Fine Structure

Additional Penalties

Beyond monetary fines, penalties can include temporary service suspension until compliance, permanent product/service withdrawal from market, publication of violation on ANPC website, consumer compensation orders, and court-ordered contract modifications.

Prohibited Abusive Clauses Under Romanian Law

Law 193/2000 on unfair contract terms prohibits clauses that exclude or limit provider liability for damages, allow unilateral price increases without justification, bind consumer while making provider obligations conditional, impose disproportionate penalties on consumers, extend contract automatically without clear terms, restrict consumer’s right to legal action, or transfer provider obligations to third parties without consent.

Legal consequence: Abusive clauses are automatically void, even if signed by the consumer.

Consumer Rights in Romanian Service Contracts

Core Consumer Rights

Under Government Order 21/1992, consumers have the right to complete, accurate information about services, unilateral contract termination (30 days notice, no penalties), protection against unfair terms, compensation for damages caused by provider, refuse data sharing for marketing, alternative dispute resolution, and 14-day withdrawal period for distance contracts.

Withdrawal Right (Distance Contracts)

For services purchased online or off-premises, you have a 14-day cooling-off period from contract signing with full refund for unused services. No justification is required and no penalties apply for exercising the withdrawal right, except for services fully performed with consumer’s advance consent.

Recent Legal Updates (2024-2025)

Emergency Government Ordinance 58/2022

Key changes effective May 28, 2022 include increased fines for abusive clauses, 3-year statute of limitations for ANPC sanctions, and enhanced powers to remove abusive clauses from all contracts.

ANPC Order 539/2024: “Shrinkflation” Rules

New requirements effective October 10, 2024 require businesses to inform consumers of product size/weight reductions, provide specific labeling for reduced quantities, and face penalties for non-disclosure.

Law 243/2024: Consumer Credit

New protections effective November 27, 2024 include limited total cost of credit, interest rate caps, and enhanced disclosure requirements.

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FAQ – Service Contract Requirements in Romania

Articles of Incorporation in Romania – How to Draft the Constitutive Act (2025 Guide)

Setting up a company in Romania involves several crucial steps, with the drafting and registration of the Articles of Incorporation, also known as the Act Constitutiv, being paramount. This document serves as the foundational legal framework for Romanian companies, outlining the company’s structure, objectives, and operational guidelines. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of drafting the Articles of Incorporation in Romania, ensuring compliance with Romanian law and optimizing your business for success in 2025.

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At our law firm, Atrium Romanian Lawyers, we assist clients with corporate & commercial law, company formation, and articles of incorporation services.

What Are the Articles of Incorporation (Act Constitutiv) in Romania?

Legal meaning under Romanian Company Law

Under Romanian company law, the Articles of Incorporation, or Act Constitutiv, is a legally binding document that establishes a company as a distinct legal entity. This document, essential for company incorporation in Romania, specifies the company’s core attributes, including its company name, registered office, and business activities. The Act Constitutiv details the share capital, the number of shareholders, and their respective contributions. It also outlines the rules governing the management and representation of the company. Furthermore, the Articles of Incorporation includes provisions for profit distribution and conditions for the company’s dissolution, making it a comprehensive guide for the company’s operations under Romanian law.

Difference between Articles of Incorporation and Articles of Association

While both Articles of Incorporation and Articles of Association are vital for company formation, they serve distinct purposes. The Articles of Incorporation, or Act Constitutiv in the Romanian context, primarily focuses on the fundamental aspects of the company. On the other hand, the Articles of Association, often referred to as the bylaws, detail the internal rules and procedures for governing the company.

The Articles of Incorporation are a prerequisite for registering a company in Romania with the National Trade Register Office, while the Articles of Association provide a more detailed operational framework.

Mandatory Elements of the Romanian Constitutive Act

Company name, registered office, and object of activity

One of the primary components of the Articles of Incorporation for any Romanian company is the clear specification of the company name. This name must comply with Romanian law and be unique, distinguishing the new entity from existing Romanian companies registered in the Trade Register. Additionally, the registered office, the official address of the business in Romania, needs to be precisely stated. The business activities, or object of activity, must also be detailed, outlining the scope of operations the company will undertake, ensuring compliance with the regulations set by the Romanian Trade Register Office. These elements are crucial during the company incorporation process.

Share capital and shareholders’ contributions

The Articles of Incorporation must meticulously define the share capital of the Romanian company, specifying the total amount and the contribution of each shareholder. The document needs to clearly state the number of shares, their nominal value, and the method of contribution, whether in cash or in-kind. Proper documentation of these elements ensures compliance with Romanian trade regulations, and transparent records are maintained during company registration in Romania.

Management and representation provisions

Defining the management structure and representation provisions is essential within the Articles of Incorporation of any Romanian company. For Romanian companies, ensuring that these provisions comply with Romanian law is critical for the company’s proper governance and to avoid any legal complications related to the Romanian Trade Register.

Profit distribution and dissolution clauses

The Act Constitutiv must include clear clauses regarding profit distribution among shareholders and the conditions under which the company may be dissolved. These provisions dictate how profits will be allocated based on the number of shares held by each shareholder in the Romanian company. The document also outlines the procedures for dissolution, including liquidation processes and the distribution of assets. Properly drafted profit distribution and dissolution clauses ensure compliance with Romanian law, providing a transparent and equitable framework for all stakeholders during company formation in Romania.

Step-by-Step: How to Draft the Articles of Incorporation

Templates and examples used by Romanian lawyers

Drafting the Articles of Incorporation, or Act Constitutiv, for a Romanian company involves careful consideration of Romanian law and best practices. Many lawyers in Romania utilize standardized templates as a starting point. These templates provide a structured framework, covering essential elements such as the company name, registered office, share capital, and business activities. However, it is crucial to tailor these templates to reflect the specific requirements and objectives of each Romanian company. Consulting with lawyers in Romania ensures that the Articles of Incorporation comply with all legal requirements and company incorporation requirements, optimizing the company’s operational framework.

Common mistakes to avoid when drafting your Act Constitutiv

When drafting the Act Constitutiv for a company in Romania, avoiding common mistakes is essential to ensure a smooth company registration process and long-term legal compliance. One frequent error is failing to accurately define the business activities, which can lead to operational limitations. Another common pitfall is neglecting to specify the share capital correctly, particularly the number of shareholders and their contributions. Ambiguous or incomplete management and representation provisions can also cause governance issues within the company. It is important to seek legal advice to avoid these errors and ensure the Articles of Incorporation are legally sound for the Romanian Trade Register.

Articles of Incorporation for SRL vs. SA Companies

Differences in structure and legal requirements

The Articles of Incorporation for a Romanian SRL (limited liability company in Romania) differ significantly from those of an SA (joint stock company) due to variations in structure and legal requirements. An SRL, common for smaller businesses, benefits from simpler management and flexible share capital requirements with no mandatory minimum. The Act Constitutiv for an SRL reflects this, with straightforward provisions for management and share transfer. In contrast, an SA, typically used by larger enterprises, has more complex corporate governance structures, requiring a board of directors and greater regulatory compliance. Therefore, the Articles of Incorporation for an SA are more detailed, covering extensive reporting and shareholder rights, aligning with Romanian law.

How foreign investors can adapt templates

Foreign investors looking to set up a company in Romania can effectively use standard Articles of Incorporation templates, but adaptation is key to ensure compliance with Romanian law and alignment with their specific business needs. These templates often need modification to accurately reflect the intended business activities and management structure. Furthermore, foreign investors must ensure that the share capital and shareholder contributions comply with Romanian regulations. Consulting with lawyers in Romania is vital for navigating these nuances and tailoring the Articles of Incorporation to meet the unique requirements of international business practices and ensure a smooth registration in Romania.

Filing and Registering the Constitutive Act in Romania

Required documents and ONRC registration procedure

Filing and registering the Act Constitutiv involves a detailed procedure with the National Trade Register Office (ONRC) in Romania. The first step in company registration in Romania requires submitting several essential documents, including the drafted Articles of Incorporation, proof of the company name availability, and the identification documents of the shareholders. For limited liability companies, demonstrating the Romanian minimum share capital deposit is necessary. Once all documents are submitted to the Romanian Trade Register, the ONRC reviews them for compliance with Romanian law. Upon approval, the company is registered, and a certificate of incorporation is issued, marking the official company formation in Romania.

Legal fees and translation requirements

When setting up a company in Romania, understanding the associated legal fees and translation requirements is essential for proper budgeting and compliance. Legal fees typically cover the cost of drafting the Articles of Incorporation, legal advice, and representation during the Romanian Trade Register Office registration. If the original documents are not in Romanian, certified translations are mandatory and must be provided during company incorporation. These translation requirements add to the overall expense, so it’s crucial to account for these costs in the initial investment plan for your business in Romania. Engaging lawyers in Romania who are experienced in company formation in Romania can help navigate these requirements.

Expert Tips for Foreign Entrepreneurs

How to align your Articles with Romanian business law

For foreign entrepreneurs aiming to establish a business in Romania, aligning the Articles of Incorporation with Romanian law is paramount for a seamless company incorporation process. Foreign investors should ensure their Articles of Incorporation comply with specific legal provisions governing various Romanian companies, such as limited liability companies and joint stock companies. This includes adherence to regulations related to share capital, the number of shareholders, and the registered office. Consulting with lawyers in Romania is crucial to navigate these legal nuances and ensure your business activities are accurately reflected in the Act Constitutiv and comply with Romanian law.

Legal review by a Romanian lawyer

Engaging a Romanian lawyer to review the Articles of Incorporation is an essential step for both local and foreign entrepreneurs to ensure full compliance with Romanian law. A legal expert can identify potential issues and provide tailored advice to align the document with current legal standards and the specific type of company being established. They can verify that all required elements, such as the company name, share capital, and business activities, are accurately defined, minimizing the risk of rejection by the Romanian Trade Register. This legal review safeguards against future legal challenges, providing a solid foundation for the registration of the company and its subsequent operations.

Conclusion: Why the Constitutive Act Matters in 2025

In 2025, the Articles of Incorporation remain a critical document for any company in Romania, serving as the cornerstone of its legal and operational framework. Properly drafting and registering the Act Constitutiv ensures compliance with Romanian law, enabling the company to conduct business activities smoothly and without legal impediments. As regulations evolve, staying updated with the latest legal requirements is crucial. For foreign investors, understanding these nuances is particularly important to navigate the company incorporation process effectively and ensure a successful start for their business in Romania.

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FAQ – Articles of Incorporation in Romania