A big move can make it challenging to participate in activities that were close to your old address. By law, if you move a certain distance away, you are entitled to certain cancellation and refund rights for fitness contracts in BC.
The rules for fitness contracts in BC
We’re a not-for-profit provincial regulator and we enforce the rules for fitness contracts in BC. Contracts for activities that are ongoing and physical in nature entitle you to certain cancellation and refund rights in BC.
The rules apply to memberships, punch passes, and most physical activities that last more than a day. Things like gym memberships, yoga, martial arts, sports lessons, competitive sports, clubs, and even ski passes.
How to cancel a fitness contract if you move more than 30 km away
You can cancel if you moved farther than an additional 30 km away from the facility. For example, going from 10 km away from the facility at your old address to 41km away at your new address (if the business does not have another location that can provide comparable services within 30 km of your new address).
Follow these steps to make sure your cancellation is done correctly:
- Fill out this cancellation form to cancel your contract because of your change in circumstance
- Attach proof of your new address. This could be your drivers license, utility bill, or something similar that shows the new address.
- Send it directly to the business in a way that shows proof of delivery (email or mail)
- Keep track of your communication and follow up to confirm they received it. The law gives the business 15 days to respond and provide a refund.
How refunds work
If you are owed a refund under BC law, the business should use this formula to determine your refund amount for the unused portion.
In cases where you cancel because you moved away, by law, the business can keep up to 30% of the amount owed back to you to cover their costs.
Having trouble cancelling or getting a refund?
Always start by following the steps above to give the business a chance to resolve the issue. Not all businesses who offer fitness contracts are aware of the rules in BC and most are eager to comply with the law and fix the problem once they become aware of it.
If you are still having trouble, please submit a complaint to us directly so we can assess your situation and determine next steps.
Where to go for more information
In BC, you have rights when it comes to fitness contracts. We enforce these rules in BC. The law speaks to what information must be disclosed to you and your cancellation rights in certain scenarios. Learn more about your rights with fitness contracts on our website.
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About Consumer Protection BC
We are not-for-profit regulator responsible for overseeing certain industries and specific consumer transactions in British Columbia. If your concern is captured under the laws we enforce, we will use the tools at our disposal to assist you. If we can’t help you directly, we will try to offer a referral to a relevant organization, if one exists. Other times, court or legal assistance may be the best option. Explore our website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca