Consumer
Last reviewed March 2024 by the Clicklaw editors
Consumer law protects you when you buy things, which can include signing contracts for a service or buying insurance, and when you borrow money. It also protects you from scams or fraud.
Explore the links below to reliable online guides and tools and to organizations in BC. They have been chosen by librarians at Courthouse Libraries BC.
Selected resources
Click on a topic to see a list of resources.
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Problem with an Online Purchase?
Consumer Protection BC
When you make a purchase online, or by phone, you may have entered into what is called a “distance sales contract.” There are some rules around these types of contracts and there are specific instances that give you the right to cancel.
Last reviewed March 2024
The Little Black Book of Scams
Competition Bureau Canada
This easy-to-read guide describes several scams and how to protect yourself from them. In addition to explaining some common myths and golden rules to help you beat the scammers, it also details what to do if you get scammed and how to get help and report a scam.
Last reviewed March 2024
Buying a Used Car: How to Protect Yourself
People’s Law School
Buying a used vehicle can be risky. The vehicle might have hidden problems, or the seller might be dishonest. Learn what to watch for and how to deal with any problems.
Last reviewed March 2024
Personal Property Liens and Searches
Government of British Columbia
Explains how liens are registered legal claims on personal property, and personal property is collateral that includes tangible and intangible items (including consumer goods, vehicles, boats, aircraft, chattel paper, and licences). You can search for personal property liens, register a lien, and more.
Last reviewed May 2024
Payday Loans
Consumer Protection BC
Consumer Protection BC licenses and regulates the payday lending sector in BC. The website tells you your rights and obligations involving payday loans, and includes information on what you can do if you have a problem or complaint about a payday lender.
Last reviewed March 2024
If You’re Not Happy with a Service
People’s Law School
You hire a roofer to install a new roof on your home. A week later, the new shingles begin to fall off. Learn your rights if you receive unsatisfactory services.
Last reviewed March 2024
Report a Concern
BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA)
The BCFSA regulates real estate services, mortgage brokers, credit unions, insurance companies, trust companies, and pension plans. This page explains how to file a complaint, including steps to do beforehand. It tells you what will happen if you make a complaint, and what if your complaint falls outside of BCFSA’s mandate.
Last reviewed March 2024
FAQ
Commission for Complaints for Telecom-Television Services (CCTS)
The CCTS helps resolve customer complaints about telecommunications and TV services. This page of frequently asked questions tells you when and how you can submit a complaint about your service provider to the CCTS. The website has an online complaint form.
Last reviewed March 2024
Complaints (about life or health insurance)
OmbudService for Life and Health Insurance (OLHI)
The OmbudService for Life and Health Insurance offers a free alternative dispute resolution if you have a complaint about your life and health insurance. They also help with lost policy searches. OLHI’s service is free, bilingual, independent, and impartial.
Last reviewed March 2024
Solution Explorer: Small Claims
Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT)
The Solution Explorer is the first step in the online Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT) process, with free legal information and self-help tools. You can apply to the CRT for small claims dispute resolution right from the Solution Explorer.
Last reviewed March 2024
Consumer Protection BC
Consumer Protection BC
Consumer Protection BC regulates a variety of industries and specific consumer transactions in the province. They license and inspect regulated businesses, respond to consumer inquiries, investigate alleged violations of consumer protection laws, and classify general-release motion pictures.
Last reviewed March 2024
Essentials of Consumer Law
People’s Law School
Essentials of Consumer Law helps you learn how to protect yourself when you buy something or hire someone to perform a service. This publication explains your rights for common consumer purchases and contracts, as well as the steps you can take when something goes wrong. Reviewed March 2017.
Last reviewed March 2024
Car Sales & Repairs
People’s Law School
Guides for buying and selling a used car, leasing a car, and what to do if you have a problem with a car repair.
Last reviewed March 2024
LSLAP Manual: Consumer Protection
Law Students’ Legal Advice Program (LSLAP)
This chapter on consumer protection is from the manual used by law students handling cases at LSLAP’s legal clinics. It summarizes the law relating to contracts, consumers’ rights, sellers’ rights, warranties, misrepresentation, and false advertising.
Last reviewed September 2024