What is a distance sales contract for vehicles?
It is a contract between a seller and a consumer that is not done in person and the consumer has no opportunity to inspect the vehicle before the contract is entered into. An example of this would be a contract made over the internet, the phone or by other means.
Do I have the right to review a distance sales contract?
The law requires that certain information, including a detailed description, the total price, the delivery arrangements and any cancellation, return, exchange and refund policies, be disclosed in a clear manner before you enter into an agreement. For distance sales in electronic form, you must be able to review, correct, print or change an agreement, and accept or reject the agreement.
Are there any rights to cancel a distance sale contract?
Yes. Under the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act (BPCPA):
Are other agreements cancelled if I cancel a distance sales contract properly?
How soon does the refund have to be made?
If the requirements of the BPCPA are followed, there can be no deduction from the amount of the refund and all money must be returned to the consumer within 15 days after the notice of cancellation was given by the consumer.
What is the role of the VSA?
On January 1, 2019, the Registrar was empowered to administer the distance sales provisions of the BPCPA within the motor dealer industry. If you believe a dealer is not following the distance sales requirements, we encourage you to speak with the dealer first to see if they can resolve your concerns. Ask to speak to a senior manager like the General Manager/General Sales Manager, or to the owner. If they cannot resolve your concerns, contact VSA Consumer Services.
Where can I find additional information?
Visit the bclaws.ca website to find out the following information:
ย
NOTE: This is to provide general information and is not intended to be legal advice.
