The rules around door-to-door sales in BC have changed. As of August 1, 2026, businesses can no longer sell certain household products and services at your door. Other rules also apply when you sign a contract during a door-to-door sales visit. Here’s what you need to know before you say yes.
First things first: What can’t be sold at your door?
Under the new rules, businesses cannot sell these products and services through door-to-door sales:
- Furnaces, heat pumps and air conditioners
- Duct cleaning services
- Water heaters and water treatment systems
- Home security systems
- Solar panel systems
- Energy or window audits
The rules also cover parts and repairs for these products. So, if someone knocks on your door offering to replace your furnace or install a new heat pump, they can’t make that sale during a door-to-door visit.
Already signed a contract?
If you were sold one of these products or services through a door-to-door visit, you don’t have to go through with the contract. Any financing agreement connected to the sale also doesn’t apply.
If this happens to you, you can submit a complaint to our office. We can look at what happened and help you understand your options.
What if you invited them over?
The new rules don’t apply to every situation. For example, there are some exceptions when you invited a business to your home. There are also exceptions for certain licensed businesses and sales that happen at temporary locations, such as trade shows.
You still have rights at the door
Not every door-to-door sale is banned. For sales that are allowed, there are still rules businesses need to follow.
For contracts over $50 signed during a sales visit at your home, the business generally needs to follow the rules for direct sales contracts.
For example, a salesperson generally can’t ask you to pay more than $100 or 10 per cent of the total price, whichever is less, as a deposit. The business must also give you a copy of your contract when you sign it.
If the business doesn’t give you a copy at the time you sign, you don’t have to go through with the contract.
Changed your mind? You may have 10 days
Maybe you signed up because the offer sounded great at the time. Or maybe you got a chance to think about it and decided it wasn’t right for you. Generally, you have 10 days to cancel a door-to-door sales contract for any reason after you receive a copy of the contract. Your cancellation needs to be in writing. If you decide to cancel, keep a copy of your cancellation request and use a method that lets you prove the business received it.
Before you say yes
A salesperson at your door doesn’t mean you have to make a decision right away. Take your time. Ask questions. Read the contract. And remember, it’s okay to say no.
Knowing your rights can help you make a decision that works for you, whether a salesperson shows up unexpectedly at your door or you’ve invited them over.
Want to learn more about BC’s new door-to-door sales rules? Visit our door-to-door sales page on our website.
Did you like this? You may like these too!
Door-to-door sales: How to say no
5 things to know before hiring a home inspector in BC
Doing a reno? Don’t forget these contract details
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 consumerprotectionbc.ca.
Please note, information on our website is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For details, read our website disclaimer.