Did you buy a punch pass or bundle deal for your favourite fitness activity? Under BC law you have certain cancellation rights with these transactions. Here’s what you need to know.
Punch passes
What’s a punch pass? A punch pass or card is a bundle or session-based system for “x” many visits to a facility. In this case, we’re talking about fitness punch passes – anything that is physical in nature like gym passes, yoga classes, kickboxing lessons, pilates, etc.
Perhaps you didn’t feel like committing to a membership or maybe the 10 class pass deal was too sweet to turn down. If you find yourself the proud new owner of a punch pass, here’s what you need to know.
Can I cancel my fitness punch pass?
An important definition first. Contracts for services that are ongoing and physical in nature are known as continuing services contracts. We are responsible for regulating these contracts in the province. The rules apply to fitness memberships and punch passes for physical culture or exercise activities.
By law, you have cancellation rights with these contracts if:
- It’s been 10 days or less since you got a copy of your contract.
- You are mentally or physically unable to participate (you must have a note from a doctor or nurse practitioner)
- You moved more than 30 km from the facility (you must provide proof of your new address)
- The business changes the services offered. For example, if the business has closed or moved, or an amenity like a pool is no longer available.
How do I cancel and get a refund?
If one of the situations above apply to you, head to this page on our website to learn how to cancel your contract and to use our official forms. If you are eligible, the business should use this formula to determine your refund amount.
Can my fitness punch pass expire?
The short answer is yes. Learn more about punch pass expiry rules in BC.
Where can I go for help?
We regulate these contracts in BC and can help you enforce your rights if you run into issues. The first thing to do is to follow the steps on our gym cancellation page. If you are still having problems and can’t resolve it with the business, you can submit a complaint to us directly so we can assess it.
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About Consumer Protection BC
We are not-for-profit regulator responsible for overseeing certain industries and specific consumer transactions in British Columbia. If your concern is captured under the laws we enforce, we will use the tools at our disposal to assist you. If we can’t help you directly, we will try to offer a referral to a relevant organization, if one exists. Other times, court or legal assistance may be the best option. Explore our website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca.