Don’t skip the contract details

WHEN RENOVATING THIS SUMMER

I t’s summertime, and for many, it’s time to renovate. Consumer Protection BC reminds the public and businesses about what must be included in renovation contracts. The provincial regulator recently ordered a construction company to refund a consumer’s deposit because the contract was missing the required information.

To avoid risk for both parties, consumers and contractors need to know their rights and responsibilities. When renovating, consumers and contractors often enter into what is called a ‘future performance contract’, where the consumer does not pay in full upfront, or doesn’t get the goods or services immediately. With this transaction, very specific information must be in the contract.

Three things that a business must include in their future performance contract: 1. The start and end date of the

contract; 2. A detailed description of the goods or services to be supplied under the contract; 3. A detailed statement of the terms of payment. Three tips for consumers before signing this type of contract: 1. Understand what services are

included; 2. Always read the fine print; 3. Ask about cancellation policies.

For more information about consumer contracts, and for a more comprehensive list about what must be included in a future performance contract, explore their website at:

About Consumer Protection BC: Consumer Protection BC is the regulator of a variety of sectors and specific consumer transactions in the province, with a mandate to license and inspect regulated businesses, respond to consumer inquiries, investigate alleged violations of consumer protection laws, classify general release motion pictures and provide information and referrals to consumers.