A contract is an agreement under which 2 or more parties commit to doing or not doing something.
The Consumer Protection Act governs all contracts entered into between a consumer and a merchant:
- as part of the merchant’s commercial activities; and
- that concern goods or services.
Is a verbal agreement sufficient?
You think you have made no commitment because you have not signed a contract? Think again: in many cases, a verbal agreement is enough. You and the merchant are committed to each other as soon as you enter into the agreement.
However, the Office de la protection du consommateur recommends that you ask the merchant you are doing business with for a written contract. This will provide you with a clear agreement. In addition, if there is a problem, it will be easier for you to assert your rights.
When is a contract mandatory?
In certain cases, the Consumer Protection Act requires a written contract and provides for the mandatory contents and conditions for cancellation.
Refer to the section on rules for certain contracts to find out to which contracts these rules apply.
Last update : September 30, 2021
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