Consumer

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Guides for buying and selling a used car, leasing a car, and what to do if you have a problem with a car repair.

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.