Renovation season is right around the corner and you may be starting to drum up new clients for your renovation business. If you are engaging in door-to-door sales, be aware that these contracts are called direct sales contracts and are regulated by the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act (BPCPAct).

Follow these steps to help ensure that your company is engaging in good business practices:

• Ensure that your contracts are in compliance with the law. The BPCP Act requires certain information be included in all direct (or door-to-door) sales contracts. Otherwise, the contract will not be considered binding, which can hurt your business.

• Be aware of consumer cancellation rights. These rights include the stipulation that consumers have 10 days from the date they received a copy of the direct sales contract to change their minds. Don’t forget to give the consumer a copy of the contract at the time it is signed.

• If you are engaging in door-to-door sales, be responsible for your staff. Know who you are hiring and be aware of what sales tactics your staff are using. Train your staff well.

If you have questions about engaging in door-to-door sales, please contact Consumer Protection BC at 1-888-564-9963.

To view the full list of the required contract content and consumer cancellation rights, view the BPCP Act here (see sections 19 through 22). Also view the Consumer Contract Regulations for further disclosure requirements.

Click here to view our media release about home renovations, which includes tips for consumers.