February 9,2026
RED FM News Desk
British Columbians will gain new protections against unfair business practices when amendments to the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act take effect in summer 2026. The changes aim to provide clearer contracts, stronger cancellation rights, and safeguards against high-pressure sales tactics.
Amendments that received royal assent in 2025 already restrict businesses from including costly private arbitration clauses, limiting class-action participation, or preventing consumers from posting online reviews. The remaining measures, effective August 1, 2026, follow extensive consultations with industry and consumer groups to allow businesses time to prepare.
Key consumer protections include:
- Standardized contract rules for all purchases, including online, ensuring clear information on refunds, returns, exchanges, and cancellations.
- Restrictions on automatic contract renewals without advance notice, consumer approval, or cancellation options.
- Limits on one-sided contract terms that allow businesses to make unilateral changes.
- A ban on high-pressure direct sales tactics for expensive household items like air conditioners and furnaces.
- A ban on offering credit as part of door-to-door sales to reduce predatory practices.
The amendments aim to protect vulnerable groups, including seniors, newcomers, and people with lower incomes or disabilities, and give consumers more control over subscriptions and service renewals. The government is working with Consumer Protection BC and businesses to ensure a smooth implementation.
These changes reinforce B.C.’s commitment to strengthening consumer rights and making everyday transactions fairer and safer.
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