Fitness contracts must include certain information to be binding. These disclosures are important because it helps you make an informed decision before committing to a contract. Here’s what you need to see in your contract when you sign up for a physical activity.
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.
10 details that must be in your fitness contract
By law, fitness contracts must include certain information. These disclosures are important because it helps you make an informed decision before you sign on the dotted line. Here are some of the things that your contract must include:
- the business’s name
- the business’s address and phone number
- the date the contract is entered into
- a detailed description of the goods or services that will be supplied under the contract
- a detailed statement of the terms of payment
- the total cost, including the total cost of credit
- other costs payable (like taxes and shipping charges)
- the period of time, in months, where you can reasonably expect to get the services
- any restrictions, limitations or other terms or conditions that may apply
- your cancellation rights (written in a way that is clear and easy to understand). This must be on the first page of the contract. If not, the first page must contain a statement, clearly displayed, sharing where the notice may be found in the contract.
This is not a full list. Read Part 4 of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act for the details.
Is your fitness contract missing information?
If information is missing, check with the business to confirm. Not having this information in your contract can give you cancellation and refund rights for up to one year (from the date you received the contract).
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.
Having trouble cancelling or getting a refund?
Always start by giving 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.
Tell us what you think for a chance to win!
We want your input! Fill out our survey for a chance to win one of two $300 prizes! Your feedback will help us improve our resources and educate more consumers and businesses in BC.
Take the survey by visiting this page or by clicking on the image below.
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