Skip to main content

Skip to navigation

The access keys for this page are:


Bookmark and Share
Seniors BC

Consumer Protection

Whether you are buying a car, planning a trip or making an everyday purchase, you may have concerns about the company you are dealing with. Fortunately, seniors in British Columbia have access to free assistance and information in the area of consumer protection.

Consumer protection resources include the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority, which provides information about funeral services, travel agents, debt-collection firms and other types of businesses. The Motor Vehicle Sales Authority of BC gives advice on purchasing motor vehicles and helps resolve problems with vehicle sales.

Consumer Protection BC

British Columbia seniors may have questions or concerns about whether a company they are doing business with is operating legally and ethically. Consumer Protection BC is a not-for-profit corporation independent from government. Consumer Protection BC helps people become more informed consumers, and provides a way to report their concerns about specific businesses.

Consumer Protection BC offers information about the funeral-services industry, travel agencies, payday lenders, debt-collection firms, home-inspection services, telemarketing and other businesses. Consumer Protection BC also administers the Travel Assurance Fund (TAF). If you qualify, this fund of last resort provides compensation for travel services paid for, but not received.

Visit Consumer Protection BC for information.

Motor Vehicle Sales Authority of British Columbia

Buying a new or used car is a big decision for consumers of any age. There are many things that a consumer should know before buying a new or used vehicle. The Motor Vehicle Sales Authority of British Columbia (VSA), which regulates and licenses the province’s automobile dealers, offers many Tips For Buying a Vehicle on their website.

If, after a vehicle purchase, you have problems that you cannot resolve or if you believe the salesperson or dealership has acted illegally, you may file a consumer complaint with the VSA. The complaint can be filed online through the Motor Vehicle Sales Authority website.