Resolve a Dispute

When it comes to dispute resolution, there are many choices. Here are 5 basic steps that can make your dispute resolution efforts more effective:

Step 1: Be prepared. Collect all the facts. This may include documents related to your issue, such as receipts, contracts, agreements, emails and notes you made. Make copies of everything and keep the originals.

Step 2: Speak to the right person. Contact the business. Ask to speak to customer service or someone with authority, such as a manager or owner.

Step 3: State your case and propose a solution. Clearly explain your problem and provide copies of your documents. Suggest a solution that you think is fair. But, do not dismiss other solutions, if offered. Take the time to think about any offers before accepting or rejecting them. Come back the next day, if needed.

Step 4: Get help. If no solution is reached, seek help. Examples of the organizations that might be able to help are:

• Vehicle Sales Authority of BC – accepts consumer complaints and provides dispute resolution for consumers who bought a vehicle for personal use from a licensed motor dealer
• Mediate BC – specializes in dispute resolution through mediation
• Better Business Bureau – resolves disputes by conciliation, mediation, and arbitration between their members and consumers
• Consumer Protection BC – offers dispute resolution services for the travel, funeral and some other sectors

Step 5: Take legal action. Taking legal action is often a last resort. You will probably want to seek legal advice to consider the cost and benefit of going to Small Claims Court or the BC Supreme Court.