On March 31, 2025, the BC Legislature passed the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Amendment Act. This Act makes changes to the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act (BPCPA) which is designed to protect people from unfair business practices and strengthen consumer rights. Read more about this announcement.
How does this affect the CRT?
The Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT) has jurisdiction to resolve small claims $5,000 and under. Previously, the CRT was allowed to consider the BPCPA in decisions but was not allowed to order someone to pay money because of a breach of the BPCPA.
Small claims under the BPCPA
The CRT can now resolve small claims $5,000 and under that deal with damage or loss due to a breach of the BPCPA. This includes claims against:
- Suppliers
- Credit reporting agencies
- Debt collectors, collection agents, and bailiffs
- A person required to hold a licence under the BPCPA such as payday loan businesses, travel agents, and loan brokers.
Examples of claims include whether:
- A contract met certain requirements
- A contract is valid, even if it did not meet certain requirements.
- A supplier misrepresented a product
- A debt collector breached the rules such as by using threatening language
When do these changes take effect?
The first changes to the BPCPA that impact the CRT’s jurisdiction are effective as of March 31, 2025. Other changes that impact the CRT’s jurisdiction will come into force later.
Where to make a claim
To make a CRT claim, use the Small Claims Solution Explorer to classify your issue and give you the right online application form.
Consumer Protection BC is also able to resolve claims that deal with the BPCPA.
If you need help understanding your options, you may want to get legal advice. The CRT can’t give legal advice or help you decide what option to take.