Can I get a refund if a product or service doesn’t work?
Yes. If a product or service is defective, unsafe, or doesn’t work as advertised, you may be entitled to a refund, replacement, or repair. Businesses must stand behind the products and services they sell.
For example, if an appliance breaks down right away or a service is not provided as promised, BC’s consumer protection laws give you the right to seek a fair solution. If the business refuses, you may be able to escalate your complaint to Consumer Protection BC or take the matter to Civil Resolution BC (claims up to $5000) or BC Small Claims court (claims from $5,000 - $35,000).
Learn more about your consumer rights at People’s Law School.
Others found these helpful...
- Consumer Protection BC (opens in a new tab)
This government agency is the regulator for specific types of consumer transactions in BC.
- Peoples Law School (opens in a new tab)
The PLS website provides helpful information about consumer law and debt issues.
- Clicklaw (opens in a new tab)
Clicklaw provides helpful information about consumer law, debt, taxes and finances.
- BC Civil Resolution Tribunal (opens in a new tab)
The Solution Explorer on the CRT website provides free legal information and self-help tools that enable people to address disputes for up to $5000.
- Access Pro Bono BC (opens in a new tab)
Runs free legal clinics across BC. Get free summary advice to help you navigate consumer contracts, debt lawsuits, or being sued in Small Claims Court.
- Credit Counselling Society (opens in a new tab)
This non-profit provides free credit counselling. They can review your financial situation, negotiate with creditors and set up a management plan to consolidate unsecured debt.