It’s Consumer Awareness Week and all week we are talking contracts. Did you know that once you turn 19, you’re legally on the hook for any contract you sign? Here are three things you should know before signing on the dotted line.
Whether you’re buying something online, buying your first car or getting a cell phone, know that contracts carry with them certain rights and responsibilities. If you don’t read the fine print before you buy, you just may find yourself owing money for a good or service that you didn’t want or can’t return. So before you sign, stop and think about these things:
- Know what you are saying yes to. Buying online? Don’t hit “I agree” to the popup terms and conditions before reading the details.
- Get it in writing. Always get a written copy of your contract. Made your deal verbally? Make sure you follow up in writing, outlining the terms that you have both agreed to. You will be glad you did.
- Know when you can cancel. Some types of contracts give you certain rights to cancel. Find out what they are before you sign.
ADDITIONAL READING:
Financing or leasing? Know the total cost
Contracts – I didn’t agree to that
Jack and Lisa’s story: paving the way to a consumer refund
What would you do? A guide to being a savvy consumer: home-repair
The difficulty with cell phones and other items from national companies, is that the contracts are pre-written by lawyers to apply all over Canada. The minimum wage salesperson is in no position to change the terms of the contract. Consumer Protection BC did assist me by pointing out that only in BC did a certain protection apply. I used that information to get a company and several of its subsequent pitbulls to back off.
Ditto with computer software and programs. You have to agree with the contract, otherwise you may not get basics like browsers, or other programs. I do weigh how much of my privacy may be compromised, or through friends sharing their lists of friends on Facebook with questionable sources.
I appreciate the information and the existence of a government department like Consumer Protection BC.
Thank you for your comment. We appreciate the recognition.
i purchased 12 personal training sessions with a CanFitPro registered trainer. I have completed 6 sessions and am not satisfied with the service I have been receiving. I have communicated this to the trainer and we have come to no compromise that satisfies both parties. I have requested a refund on the remaining 6 sessions and this has been refused. There was never anything I had to sign, so it looks like I’ve entered into a verbal contract which is not right according to your website….advice on the next step would be great?
Hi Kara, by law you may have cancellation rights if you didn’t enter/receive a copy of a written contract. To help you further please call our Inquiry Centre at 1-888-564-9963, we are open Monday-Friday 8:30-4:30. Thank you!