What is Nova Scotia Consumer Protection?

The provincial government in Nova Scotia tries to prevent greedy unscrupulous businesses from taking advantage of their customers through shady practices under the Nova Scotia Consumer Protection program. The Consumer Protection Act and the Sale of Goods Act set out clear lines for running their businesses. When these lines are crossed and underhand tactics are employed the government steps in to protect the rights of the consumer. In the case of Nova Scotia, the rights of the consumer are protected by the Consumer Protection Act in business transactions and credit reporting. This Act places the burden of verification of details collected about the consumer for credit reporting on the credit agency, and requires that such information be shared only with the authorized people or companies, while making such information easily accessible to the consumer as and when he may demand.

As these data may be sensitive and can impact the consumer's dealing with banks and other financial institutions, it is incumbent on the credit agency to see to the sanctity of the data is preserved. The Direct Sellers' Regulation Act protects the consumers in Nova Scotia in case of direct marketing by the seller and if and when the product or service is found wanting. It clearly sets out the responsibilities of the direct seller and the rights of the customers in the Act, under the aegis of the Nova Scotia Consumer Protection program. In case of loans and mortgages, the Act requires that all pertaining and vital information be shared with the customer before signing of the mortgage or loan agreement.

Any untoward surprises are frowned upon and can be reported by the customer. The Consumer Protection Act, along with the Mortgage Brokers' and Lenders' Registration Act ensure that the customers' interests are best served in Nova Scotia. When a loved one dies, people are too distraught to check for shady deals. So the government steps in and regulates the code of conduct for funeral directors and cemeteries. In keeping with the times, the Nova Scotia government has also set out clear guidelines for conducting business online.

Any Nova Scotia resident when doing business online, or shopping, is protected by the new safeguards introduced in the Consumer Protection Act. It covers all online transactions, and bestows special rights on the consumer as they are buying the products and services unseen. Any difference in the promised quality can be cited and the government will take action. The Nova Scotia Consumer Protection also empowers the customer to return the product and ask for a refund if the product or service is unsatisfactory. It also requires all internet businesses to disclose all costs, including delivery and shipping charges, if any, product specifications, itemized price list, cancellation and refund policies, etc. before the actual purchase so that the customer can take an informed decision. Thus the Canadian government in general and the Nova Scotia government in particular, take care of their citizens and protect them from unscrupulous businessmen.