RESOURCE BOOK - CLEO Connect · 2019. 8. 12. · Surviving Home Renovations with the Consumer Protection Act Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services The Ministry of Consumer Services

COMMUNITY LAW SCHOOL

(SARNIA-LAMBTON) INC.

[email protected]

www.communitylawschool.org

Consumer Protection Education for Rural Ontario

RESOURCE BOOK

May 2014

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.communitylawschool.org/

Copyright 2014, Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc. 2



[email protected]


Consumer Protection Education for Rural Ontario

Resource Book

Table of Contents

1. Introduction (page 4)

2. Unfair Practices under the Consumer Protection Act (page 5)

3. Door – to – Door Sales (page 6)

4. Surviving Home Renovations under the Consumer Protection Act (page 7)

5. Fighting Telephone Trickery/Telephone Scams (page 8)

6. Telephone and Mail Agreements under the Consumer Protection Act (page 10)

7. Watch Your Step on the Internet/ Internet Scams (page 11)

8. Personal Development Services Contracts/Pre-Paid Services (page 12)

9. Cell phone Contracts (page 13)

10. Energy Re-Billers (before 1/1/11) (page 14)

11. Energy Re-Billers (after 1/1/11) (page 15)

12. Collection Agencies (page 16)

13. Consumer Reporting and Credit Repair (page 17)

14. Pay Day Loans Act (page 19)




15. Assisting Victims of Identity Theft (page 21)

16. Private Career College Act (page 22)

17. Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (page 23)

18. Motor Vehicle Repairs (page 24)

19. Other Helpful Resources (page 26)




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Consumer Protection Education for Rural Ontario (CPERO)

Resource Book

Introduction

We hope this Resource Book will provide frontline community advocates with the tools

they need to assist their clients with the many consumer protection challenges they face

daily. This Resource Book is best used in conjunction with the CPERO Quick Tip Sheets

(available at www.communitylawschool.org), the Your Legal Rights webinars (available at

www.yourlegalrights.on.ca), and the new Consumer Protection Series of booklets available

from Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO), all of which cover a variety of

consumer protection topics.

The information in this Resource Book is current as of May, 2014. We recommend you

update the Book on a regular basis as information can change quickly.

This Resource Book provides information only and should not be construed as legal advice

of any kind.

Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc.

In partnership with:

Community Legal Services (Western Law)

Pro Bono Students Canada (Western Law)

With the financial support of:

The Law Foundation of Ontario

May, 2014




http://www.yourlegalrights.on.ca/


Unfair Practices under the Consumer Protection Act

Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services

The Ministry of Consumer Services (MCS) provides consumers with advice and assistance.

The website covers numerous consumer protection topics. It includes informational brochures,

as well as lists of individuals and businesses against whom complaints have been filed. Different

links provide an overview of applicable laws, links to the Consumer Protection Branch of the

Ministry, and other valuable information. It is an essential source of information for advocates

working with consumer protection issues in Ontario.

Telephone: 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947

Website: www.ontario.ca/mcs

Email: [email protected]

Mailing Address: Ministry of Consumer Services

Consumer Protection Branch

5775 Yonge Street, Suite 1500

Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Small Claims Court To pursue a claim before the Small Claims Court it is important to review the Small Claims

Court information and forms at the Ministry of Attorney General website:

http://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/courts/scc

Ontario Forms Assistant Website

The Ontario government has created this website to allow people to complete their own Small

Claims Court forms. The website provides guidance on the process and offers step-by-step

instructions for completion online. The website can be accessed at:

www.ontariocourtforms.on.ca.

Your Legal Rights Webinar: Unfair Practices under the Consumer Protection Act

This webinar, presented by Margaret Capes of Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc.,

looks at protections under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA). It covers the impact of false,

misleading, or deceptive representations by vendors. Case studies, including those raised by

webinar attendees, illustrate how the CPA can be used to free consumers from obligations that

were improperly induced in violation of the Act. The short primer and sample case studies

supplied should be reviewed prior to watching and listening to this webinar.

To download this webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Unfair-Practices-

under-the-Consumer-Protection-Act.

http://www.ontario.ca/mcs



http://www.ontariocourtforms.on.ca/

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Unfair-Practices-under-the-Consumer-Protection-Act

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Unfair-Practices-under-the-Consumer-Protection-Act


Door-to-Door Sales

Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services The Ministry of Consumer Services (MCS) provides consumers with advice and assistance.






Telephone 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947



Mailing Address: Ministry of Consumer Services Consumer Protection Branch


Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Small Claims Court

To pursue a claim before the Small Claims Court it is important to review the Small Claims








Your Legal Rights Webinar: Door-to-Door Sales


looks at one of the most commonly-encountered areas of unfair business practices: door-to-door

sales. In this webinar, we learn how to recognize unfair business practices and to identify the

remedies available to a consumer who is faced with such practices in the context of door-to-door

sales. We look at common sales tactics and a consumer's rights with regard to door-to-door sales,

including the requirements for valid contracts, required disclosures, and cancellation rights.

Finally, we learn about the important protections that the Ontario Consumer Protection Act,

2002, contains for consumers in these situations and how to exercise those rights.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/door-door-sales.





http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/door-door-sales


Surviving Home Renovations with the Consumer Protection Act







Telephone 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947





Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Small Claims Court









Your Legal Rights Webinar: Surviving Home Renovations with the Consumer Protection

Act


looks at the rights of the consumer who is renovating a house, and how the Consumer Protection

Act and the Construction Lien Act protect the owner when contracting for renovations, lawn care,

paving services, roofing repairs, etc. For the owner or client with a renovation in progress, the

webinar offers tips for dealing with contractors and subcontractors. It also looks at how to deal

with substandard work or contractors who disappear with a client's or contractor's money.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Surviving-Home-

Renovations-with-the-Consumer-Protection-Act.





http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Surviving-Home-Renovations-with-the-Consumer-Protection-Act

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Surviving-Home-Renovations-with-the-Consumer-Protection-Act


Fighting Telephone Trickery/Telephone Scams







Telephone 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947





Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Small Claims Court









Competition Bureau

The Competition Bureau, is an independent law enforcement agency that ensures Canadian

businesses and consumers prosper in a competitive and innovative marketplace.

The website can be accessed at: www.competitionbureau.gc.ca. The online home of the federal

Competition Bureau, this website provides information and links covering many topics related to

the prevention of consumer fraud and prosecution of those who perpetrate fraudulent practices

on consumers. The site includes news releases about the latest consumer scams and frauds that

consumers need to know about and protect themselves from.

Telephone: 819-997-4282

Toll-free: 1-800-348-5358 (Canada)

Toll-free TTY: 1-800-642-3844 (for hearing-impaired only)

Fax: 819-997-0324

Mailing Address only: 50 Victoria Street

Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0C9





http://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/


The Canadian Radio and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) The CRTC manages the National Do Not Call List (DNCL) and enforces the Unsolicited

Telecommunications Rules. The CRTC’s website contains information on how to protect

oneself from scams, what to do if victimized by a scam and information on the most current

scams.

Mailing Address: Ottawa, ON

K1A 0N2

Toll-free: 1-877-249-2782

Website: http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/home-accueil.htm

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Call Centre (formerly Phonebusters)

The website can be accessed at www.phonebusters.com. It is a joint effort of the OPP and the

RCMP to address and eliminate telephone and internet fraud. It is devoted to educating

consumers about scams and prosecuting those behind them. The website contains valuable

information about all types of fraud, and links to help consumers to recognize and report it.

Toll Free (Canada and U.S.A.): 1.888.495.8501

Overseas and Local: 1.705.495.8501

Toll Free Fax: 1.888.654.9426

E-mail: [email protected]

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 686

North Bay, Ontario P1B 8J8

National Do Not Call List

The National Do Not Call List (DNCL) is a list of telephone numbers of consumers who want to

reduce the number of telemarketing calls they receive. Organizations that make telemarketing

calls are not allowed to call phone numbers registered on the National DNCL.

The website can be accessed at: https://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca. Consumers can register on the

National Do Not Call list at this website, as well as access information about the DNC List and

file complaints about violations of the DNC List.

Telephone: 1-866-580-DNCL (3625)

Fax: 1-888-DNCL-Fax (362-5329)

TTY device: 1-888-DNCL-TTY (362-5889)

Important Note: To use the National DNCL service line you must call from the number you wish

to register.

Mailing Address: The National Do Not Call List

c/o CRTC

Ottawa, Ontario

K1A 0N2

Attention: Do Not Call List

http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/home-accueil.htm

http://www.phonebusters.com/


https://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/


Your Legal Rights Webinar: Fighting Telephone Trickery Using Consumer Protection

Laws


looks at telephone scams and other consumer problems with phones. It reviews the role of the

Competition Bureau, the Ministry of Consumer Services, the Canadian Radio-television and

Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), and the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre in combating

telephone trickery. Examples of recent versions of these scams will be reviewed so attendees will

have an idea of what to watch for in their everyday lives.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Fighting-Telephone-

Trickery-Using-Consumer-Protection-Laws.

Telephone and Mail Agreements under the Consumer Protection Act







Telephone: 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947





Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Small Claims Court









http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Fighting-Telephone-Trickery-Using-Consumer-Protection-Laws

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Fighting-Telephone-Trickery-Using-Consumer-Protection-Laws






Your Legal Rights Webinar: Telephone and Mail Agreements


looks at telephone and mail agreements: what must be included in the agreement, what the seller

or vendor cannot do, and where to turn if the agreement is not fulfilled.

To access this webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/telephone-and-mail-

agreements.

Watch Your Step on the Internet!/Internet Scams







Telephone 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947





Toronto, ON M7A 2E5








Toll Free Fax: 1.888.654.9426




Small Claims Court



http://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/courts/scc.

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/telephone-and-mail-agreements

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/telephone-and-mail-agreements












Your Legal Rights Webinar: Watch Your Step on the Internet!


looks at common scams such as phishing, advance fee frauds, prize and lottery scams, the

grandparent scam, and cheque overpayment scams. The webinar reviews the risks of purchasing

goods or services online. It covers plans of action to counter scamming activity involving reports

to police, banks, credit card companies, the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre, and the Ministry of

Consumer Services. Finally, it discusses how to launch a civil claim in Small Claims or Superior

Court including the pros and cons of taking such a step against "hard to trace" perpetrators.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/watch-your-step-internet.

Personal Development Services Contracts/Pre-Paid Services







Telephone: 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947





Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Small Claims Court





http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/watch-your-step-internet










Your Legal Rights Webinar: Pre-Paid Services


looks at the sometimes shadowy world of prepaid services. Fitness club memberships, dance

lessons, and tae kwon do classes are all examples of prepaid personal development service

agreements covered under the Consumer Protection Act, 2002. Many consumer goods and

services require prepayment, and most businesses are honest. However, consumers can find they

have a problem when they have prepaid and the business fails to provide the service they

expected, or doesn't provide any service at all. We look at issues such as cooling-off periods,

prepayment of fees, renewals, and warranties. Finally, we learn about the important protections

that the Act contains for consumers with regard to prepaid service agreements and how to

exercise those rights.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Pre-Paid-Services.

Cell Phone Contracts








Telephone 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947






Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Small Claims Court





http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Pre-Paid-Services










Commissioner for Complaints for Telecommunications Services

The Commissioner’s office deals with complaints regarding its member telecommunication

companies. Its services are free for consumers and can help resolve issues regarding contract

compliance, billing, and service delivery.

Website: www.ccts-cprst.ca

Toll-free: 1-888-221-1687

TTY: 1-877-782-2384


Fax: 1-877-782-2924

Mailing address: P.O. Box 81088

Ottawa, ON K1P 1B1

Your Legal Rights Webinar: Cell Phone Contracts

This webinar, presented by Margaret Capes, Legal Education Coordinator of Community Law

School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc., looks at cell phone contracts, legislation and agencies that govern

the cell phone industry, the rights of consumers and remedies available to them when they find

their service contract untenable, and how and where to complain about an unresponsive service

provider.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Cell-Phone-Contracts.

Energy Re-billers Pre-1/11/11

Ontario Energy Board.

In Ontario, the activities of energy re-billers are regulated by the Ontario Energy Board. The

Board can investigate complaints from consumers and mediate settlements between the parties.

The Board can be reached at: www.ontarioenergyboard.ca.

The consumer can file a complaint with the Ontario Energy Board. The Board can review the

case and determine whether the re-biller has followed all of the proper steps under the law. If

not, the Board can mediate an agreement between the parties to settle the case.

Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time).

Telephone: 1-877-632-2727 (toll-free within Ontario)

Telephone: 416-440-7656 (within GTA or outside Canada)

Address: Ontario Energy Board


http://www.ccts-cprst.ca/

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Cell-Phone-Contracts

http://www.ontarioenergyboard.ca/


P.O. Box 2319

2300 Yonge Street, 27th Floor

Toronto, Ontario M4P 1E4

Small Claims Court The consumer can sue civilly in Small Claims Court and request an Order that the contract was

entered into using misrepresentations and false information. If successful, the consumer may

request monetary damages.









Your Legal Rights: Energy Re-billing

Many private energy companies go door-to-door trying to get residents to sign contracts for their

services. These companies may lead consumers to believe that by signing a multi-year contract,

they will save money on their heat and hydro bills. However, in some cases, it actually costs a lot

more money to lock into a contract and can be difficult to get out of. This webinar, presented by

Margaret Capes of Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc., looks at how the general

protections of the Consumer Protection Act, 2002 apply to energy marketers, or re-billers are

they are more formally called. In addition, the Ontario Energy Board Act specifically governs

energy re-billing, identifying unfair marketing practices and providing additional protections for

consumers.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Energy-Re-billing.

Energy Re-billers Post-1/11/11

Ontario Energy Board.

In Ontario, since January 1, 2011, the activities of energy re-billers are solely regulated by the

Ontario Energy Board. The Board can investigate complaints from consumers and mediate

settlements between the parties. The Board can be reached at: www.ontarioenergyboard.ca. The

consumer can file a complaint with the Ontario Energy Board. The Board can review the case

and determine whether the re-biller has followed all of the proper steps under the law. If not, the

Board can mediate an agreement between the parties to settle the case.

Telephone: 1-877-632-2727 (toll-free within Ontario)

Telephone: 416-440-7656 (within GTA or outside Canada)



http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Energy-Re-billing

http://www.ontarioenergyboard.ca/


Address: Ontario Energy Board

P.O. Box 2319

2300 Yonge Street, 27th Floor

Toronto, Ontario M4P 1E4

Small Claims Court

The consumer can sue civilly in Small Claims Court and request an Order that the contract was

entered into using misrepresentations and false information. If successful, the consumer may

request monetary damages.









Your Legal Rights: Re-billers and the Energy Consumer Protection Act 2010

This webinar is presented by Margaret Capes, Legal Education Coordinator of Community Law

School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc. It revisits an area of concern for consumers: energy re-billing.

With the passage of the Energy Consumer Protection Act, 2010 (ECPA), consumers have

enhanced protections with regard to energy re-billers, their marketing practices, and re-billing

contracts entered into after January 1, 2011. The webinar presents information to help consumers

recognize the need for caution if contacted by an energy re-biller, and to be better informed

about their rights if they find themselves trapped in an unfavourable re-billing contract.

To access this webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Re-billers-and-the-

Energy-Consumer-Protection-Act-2010.

Collection Agencies

Ontario Association of Credit Counselling Services (OACCS)

The website can be accessed at: www.oaccs.com. The OACCS is a registered charitable

organization that acts as an umbrella organization for nonprofit credit counselling agencies. Its

website contains valuable information about personal financial issues, from how to recognize the

signs of money problems, to plans and resources to help individuals deal with overwhelming

debt loads. Consumers can also obtain contact information for a counselling centre in their

geographic area.

Telephone: (905) 945-5644

Toll Free: 1-888-746-3328



http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Re-billers-and-the-Energy-Consumer-Protection-Act-2010

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Re-billers-and-the-Energy-Consumer-Protection-Act-2010

http://www.oaccs.com/


By Mail: P.O. Box 189

Grimsby, ON L3M 4G3








Telephone: 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947






Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Your Legal Rights Webinar: Collection Agencies


discusses the protections for consumers that come under the Ontario Collection Agencies Act. It

also describes the best way to deal with collection agencies and what consumers can do if a

collection agency violates the Act.

To access this webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Collection-Agencies.

Consumer Reporting and Credit Repair







geographic area.

Telephone: (905) 945-5644

Toll Free: 1-888-746-3328


Grimsby, ON L3M 4G3



http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Collection-Agencies



Obtaining a Credit Report

The Consumer Reporting Act requires that a consumer reporting agency provide a consumer with

a free copy of his or her credit report if the consumer requests a copy. There are two main credit

reporting agencies in Canada: Equifax and TransUnion. If a consumer disputes the accuracy of

any information in his or her file, the reporting agency must confirm the information, correct it if

necessary, or delete it if it is inaccurate.

Equifax

To request a free credit report, download the request form at,

http://www.equifax.com/ecm/canada/EFXCreditReportRequestForm.pdf.

Mailing Address: National Consumer Relations

P. O. Box 190, Station Jean-Talon

Montreal, Quebec H1S 2Z2

Fax: (514)355-8502

TransUnion

To request a free credit report, download the request form at,

http://www.transunion.ca/docs/personal/Consumer_Disclosure_Request_Form_en.pdf.

Mailing Address: Consumer Relations Centre

PO Box 338 LCD1

Hamilton, Ontario L8L 7W2

Fax: (905)527-0401







Telephone: 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947





Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

http://www.equifax.com/ecm/canada/EFXCreditReportRequestForm.pdf

http://www.transunion.ca/docs/personal/Consumer_Disclosure_Request_Form_en.pdf




Small Claims Court Consumers may also file private civil lawsuits to seek redress from agencies that violate their

credit reporting rights.









Your Legal Rights: Consumer Reporting and Credit Reporting

This webinar, presented by Margaret Capes, Legal Education Coordinator of Community Law

School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc., looks at one of the largest sources of complaints to the Ministry

of Consumer Services: consumer (credit) reporting agencies. In this webinar we will learn about

reporting agencies, credit files, credit reports, and how to correct inaccuracies in credit files. We

will also look at credit repair agencies and at what they can and cannot do to "fix" a consumer's

credit record. Finally, we will learn about the protections afforded to consumers under the

Ontario Consumer Reporting Act and Ontario's Consumer Protection Act, 2002.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Consumer-Reporting-

and-Credit-Reporting.

Pay Day Loans Act

Registrar, Payday Loans Act, 2008

A consumer can make a complaint to the PDLA Registrar who has broad investigatory powers;

who may mediate between the parties; and who may issue written warning, refuse to renew

lender’s license, or order fines.

A consumer may also request the Ministry of Consumer Services to prosecute under the PDLA

which can result in a fine or imprisonment.

Mailing Address: Registrar, Payday Loans Act, 2008



Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Telephone: (416)326-6203

Toll-free: 1(800)889-9768

Fax: (416)326-8810



http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Consumer-Reporting-and-Credit-Reporting

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Consumer-Reporting-and-Credit-Reporting








Telephone: 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947





Toronto, ON M7A 2E5

Small Claims Court









Your Legal Rights Webinar: Pay Day Loans Act This webinar is presented by Margaret Capes of Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc.

Many Ontarians rely on pay day loan companies to tide them over between pay cheques. For a

fee, these businesses will provide a cash advance in exchange for a promise to repay the loan

once the pay cheque is due. The Pay Day Loans Act protects borrowers from high fees, and

requires cooling off periods, written contracts, and clear advertising regarding the rights and

responsibilities of both lenders and borrowers. This webinar focuses on consumers' rights under

the Pay Day Loans Act and ways to enforce them through the courts and the Ministry of

Consumer Services.

To access this webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Pay-Day-Loans-Act.





http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Pay-Day-Loans-Act


Assisting Victims of Identity Theft








Toll Free Fax: 1.888.654.9426




Competition Bureau

The Competition Bureau, is an independent law enforcement agency, that ensures Canadian

businesses and consumers prosper in a competitive and innovative marketplace.

The website can be accessed at: www.competitionbureau.gc.ca. The online home of the federal

Competition Bureau, this website provides information and links covering many topics related to

the prevention of consumer fraud and prosecution of those who perpetrate fraudulent practices

on consumers. The site includes news releases about the latest consumer scams and frauds that

consumers need to know about and protect themselves from.

Telephone: 819-997-4282

Toll-free: 1-800-348-5358 (Canada)

Toll-free TTY: 1-800-642-3844 (for hearing-impaired only)

Fax: 819-997-0324

Mailing Address only: 50 Victoria Street

Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0C9








Telephone 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947

Website: www.ontario.ca/mcs; Email: [email protected]



Toronto, ON M7A 2E5



http://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/




Your Legal Rights Webinar: Identity Theft: An Overview (Part 1 of 2)

Presented by Dan Chometa from Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada, this

webinar gives an overview of identity theft, including how it happens, how to prevent it, what

the signs are that show you may be a victim, and what to do about it. To access this webinar, please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Identity-Theft-An-Overview.

Your Legal Rights Webinar: “Assisting Victims of Identity Theft” (Part 2 of 2)

This webinar reviews strategies and remedies for community workers who assist victims of

identity theft. It is presented by Margaret Capes of Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton)

Inc., Dan Chometa of Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada Inc., and Elaine Magil

of WoodGreen Community Services. Those who are not already familiar with how identity theft

happens, how to prevent it, and what the signs of identity theft are, should first watch and listen

to Identity Theft: An Overview.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/assisting-victims-

identity-theft.

Private Career Colleges Act

Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities

The website can be accessed at: www.tcu.gov.on.ca, click on “Find a School” and then on

“Private Career Colleges” for information about private career colleges in Ontario, protections

for students, and licensing information for private career colleges.

General Inquiry: 416-326-1600

Toll Free: 800-387-5514 (Outside 416 Area Code)

Fax: (416) 325-6348

Address: Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities

Public Inquiries Unit

2nd Floor, 880 Bay Street

Toronto ON M7A 1N3

Private Career College Search Service

There is an online search service, that can be used to find registered private career colleges and

approved programs in Ontario. The Private Career College Search Service can be found at,

http://www.ontario.ca/en/services_for_residents/053263.

Small Claims Court




http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Identity-Theft-An-Overview

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/assisting-victims-identity-theft

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/assisting-victims-identity-theft

http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/

http://www.ontario.ca/en/services_for_residents/053263



You may also contact the Attorney General for assistance via telephone toll free: 1-800-518-

7901, or via Teletypewriter (TTY) toll free: 1-877-425-0575.






Your Legal Rights Webinar: Private Career Colleges Act

This webinar is presented by Margaret Capes of Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc.

Many Ontarians are returning to private career colleges to upgrade their skills in a demanding

job market. While there are many well-regarded private colleges, a small number do not meet the

educational requirements set by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. The Private

Career Colleges Act provides students with rights such written contracts, cooling off periods,

proper instruction/facilities, and a complaint procedure. It allows for refunds when these rights

are violated. This webinar looks at the many ways students and their advocates can protect

themselves under the Private Career Colleges Act.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Private-Career-Colleges-

Act.

Motor Vehicle Dealers Act

Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC)

OMVIC administers the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act, 2002 on behalf of the Ministry of Consumer

Services, and among other services, offers a complaint process for consumers seeking redress

from a motor vehicle dealer related to a sale or lease transaction. Consumers can also find a list

or registered dealers on the OMVIC website.

Consumers can complain to OMVIC by filing a Complaints Process Acknowledgement Form ,

and including the following documentation: the Purchase Agreement and/or Bill of Sale for the

vehicle; and any repair estimates.

Telephone: 416-226-4500

Fax: 416-226-3208

Toll-Free: 1-800-943-6002

Website: www.omvic.on.ca.

The Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund

This is a consumer protection program financed by Ontario's registered motor vehicle dealers.

The fund was established to compensate consumers who suffer a financial loss arising from a

transaction with a registered dealer. Claims are submitted to the Fund's Board of Trustees and

must be reviewed for eligibility.


http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Private-Career-Colleges-Act

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Private-Career-Colleges-Act

http://www.omvic.on.ca/


Claims to the Fund must meet specific criteria and can be made within two years of a dealer's

inability or refusal to reimburse the customer. More information can be found by contacting

OMVIC (see information above). The website can be accessed directly at

http://www.omvic.on.ca/portal/Consumers/CompensationFund.aspx.









Your Legal Rights Webinar: Motor Vehicle Dealers Act

This webinar is presented by Margaret Capes of Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc.

The Motor Vehicle Dealers Act, 2002, requires all dealers to be registered with the Ontario

Motor Vehicle Industry Council and subject to a code of ethics. There are also mandatory

disclosure requirements relating to the vehicle's history, a 90-day cooling off period for key non-

disclosures, and all-inclusive pricing required in all advertising. With this strengthened law, the

Ontario government hopes to curtail the activities of "curbsiders," unregistered dealers who sell

vehicles with altered odometers, undisclosed flood and crash damage, as well as previous use as

a taxi or police cruiser. This webinar gives an overview of the new law using case studies to

illustrate the strength of these new consumer protections.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Motor-Vehicle-Dealers-

Act.

Motor Vehicle Repairs


The Ministry of Consumer Services also provides consumers with advice and assistance.






Telephone: 416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768

Fax: 416-326-1947


http://www.omvic.on.ca/portal/Consumers/CompensationFund.aspx



http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Motor-Vehicle-Dealers-Act

http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Motor-Vehicle-Dealers-Act







Toronto, ON M7A 2E5









Your Legal Rights Webinar: Motor Vehicle Repairs


focuses on the bane of many an automobile owner: motor vehicle repairs. While there are many

reputable repair facilities, not all repair shops adhere to the consumer disclosures and protections

mandated by the Ontario Consumer Protection Act, 2002. We will look at issues such as repair

estimates, rate disclosures, warranties, and invoicing for repairs. We will review consumer

remedies and dos-and-don'ts when faced with an unsatisfactory repair job or unexpected repair

bill. Finally, we will learn about the important protections that the Act contains for consumers

with regard to motor vehicle repairs and how to exercise those rights.

To access the webinar please visit: http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Motor-Vehicle-Repairs.




http://yourlegalrights.on.ca/webinar/Motor-Vehicle-Repairs


Other Helpful Resources







geographic area.

Telephone: (905) 945-5644

Toll Free: 1-888-746-3328


Grimsby, ON L3M 4G3

Members of Provincial Parliament

Members of Provincial Parliament can sometimes be helpful with matters governed by the

provincial consumer protection laws. The website provides addresses, phone numbers and other

contact information for your local Member of the Provincial Parliament of Ontario.

The website can be accessed at www.ontario.ca (click on “MPPs” under “Contacts”).

Telephone: 416-325-7500

TTY: 416-325-9426

Fax: 416-325-7489

Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc. website at: www.communitylawschool.org

(click on Bulletin Board). The Community Law School provides training to community

advocates who assist persons with consumer protection concerns. It maintains a Bulletin Board

on its website as a place for community advocates to post questions, advocacy techniques and

tips, and other relevant information.

Law Society Referral Service (Ontario). In Ontario, the Law Society of Upper Canada

provides a service for people looking for a lawyer. It is called the Law Society Referral Service

and can be reached at 1-800-268-8326. The caller will be given the name of a lawyer or

paralegal who practices in the area of law concerned. If the caller calls or meets with that

lawyer, the first 30 minutes of the consultation are free of charge. For more information on the

Law Society Referral Service, please visit their website at:

http://www.lsuc.on.ca/faq.aspx?id=2147486372.

Justice Net

This not-for-profit service assists people whose income is too high to qualify for legal aid

coverage but not sufficient to afford standard legal fees. Legal professionals involved in this

service provide assistance at reduced rates to qualifying clients.

Website: www.justicenet.ca.

Telephone: 1-866-919-3219.


http://www.ontario.ca/


http://www.lsuc.on.ca/faq.aspx?id=2147486372

http://www.justicenet.ca/


Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO)/Your Legal Rights

CLEO is a community legal clinic that specializes in public legal education. It is funded by

Legal Aid Ontario and the Department of Justice, and is staffed by lawyers, editors and support

staff. Its website contains a wealth of information on a variety of topics of interest to low

income persons and their advocates. It sponsors the Your Legal Rights website, which acts as a

clearinghouse for information on many legal topics, at www.yourlegalrights.on.ca. In addition,

brochures on a wide variety of consumer protection topics can be requested from CLEO, who

will send the brochures at no cost to you.

Website: www.cleo.on.ca.

Mailing address: 119 Spadina Avenue, Suite 600

Toronto, Ontario M5V 2L1

Telephone: 416-408-4420

Fax: 416-408-4424


http://www.yourlegalrights.on.ca/

http://www.cleo.on.ca/


Documents

RESOURCE BOOK - CLEO Connect · 2019. 8. 12. · Surviving Home Renovations with the Consumer Protection Act Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services The Ministry of Consumer Services