{May 18, 2011} Consumer Protection BC is warning consumers that it has prohibited Superior Systems of Kelowna and Michael Alvin Friedel from engaging in direct sales for a period of five years for using illegal vacuum sales tactics.  A Director’s Compliance Order has also been issued to Superior Systems which requires the company to bring their sales contracts into compliance with the requirements under the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act and repay a $2,080 consumer deposit.

Consumer Protection BC initiated an investigation into a complaint from a consumer regarding the purchase of two vacuum cleaners and her attempt to obtain a refund from Superior Systems based on a direct sales contract (also known as a door-to-door sales contract).  The investigation concluded that the company:

• Took advantage of the consumer’s age and vulnerable state of mind;
• Represented the vacuum cleaners as new when they were not;
• Failed to refund the consumer’s money within 15 days of the contract being cancelled;
• Failed to ensure that their contracts complied with the requirements for direct sales contracts; and
• Failed to return the trade-in vacuum cleaner within 15 days of the contract being cancelled.

Based on a progressive enforcement model, Consumer Protection BC has taken action by issuing the Direct Sales Prohibition Order and Compliance Order. The company has 30 days to request a reconsideration of this decision.

Consumer Protection BC is reminding consumers to know their rights when entering into contracts and offers the following tips around door-to-door sales:

• You have the right to cancel a contract within 10 days for any reason;
• You can cancel the contract if the contract does not contain the information required under the law;
• You have the right to a refund from the supplier within 15 days if the contract is cancelled;
• You must receive a copy of the contract at the time of signing or the contract is not binding; and
• You should never have to provide a deposit that is more than $100.

If you have any questions about direct or door to door sales, please contact Consumer Protection BC toll free at 1-888-564-9963. For more consumer tips, information about direct sales contracts or the details of our enforcement model, please visit our website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca.

Consumer Protection BC is a not-for-profit corporation that was created to strengthen consumer protection in BC and enforce consumer protection laws. We balance the interests of all parties to promote a marketplace that is fair for both BC consumers and BC businesses. We license and inspect specific industries, respond to inquiries through our Inquiry Centre, investigate alleged violations of consumer protection laws, and educate consumers and businesses about their rights and responsibilities under the law.  For more information about our organization, please visit our corporate website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca. Follow Consumer Protection BC on Twitter @ConsumerProBC, like us on Facebook and read our blog for valuable consumer tips and resources.

Follow Consumer Protection BC on Twitter @ConsumerProBC, like us on Facebook and read our blog for valuable consumer tips and resources.