But for The Plan (Consumers Beware)

Ontario’s Consumer Protection Act, is the main piece of legislation that provides some protection to consumers in their dealings with businesses. Unifor members should be aware of the following:

1. Internet contracts – Contracts entered into on the Internet are included under consumer protection law. Consumers must be given the opportunity to expressly accept or decline an internet agreement before it becomes valid and must receive a copy.

2. The ten-day cooling off period has been extended, to cover not only door-to-door sales contracts, but also time share vacation contracts and pre-paid services (e.g. fitness clubs).

3. Some consumer contracts must disclose certain information. If that information is not set out in the contract, a consumer has one year to cancel the contract.

4. If the consumer goods are not delivered or services not performed within thirty days from the date agreed upon for delivery or performance, the consumer can cancel the contract.

5. Any cancellation of a consumer contract should be in writing. The effect of the cancellation is to make it as though the contract never existed.

   It is important to contact a lawyer within a few days of signing the consumer contract, to be advised of your rights under the Consumer Protection Act.

   If you enter into a consumer contract and are not sure if it is valid
   or if you wish to cancel it
   contact your Unifor Legal Services Plan office immediately!

August 2025