Complaints

For information about complaints select from the options below.

 

• Complaint checklist
• How to file a complaint
• How to write a complaint letter
• Frequently asked questions

 

Complaint checklist

Before making a complaint, it may help to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Did you gather information about the product before purchasing it to make sure that the product would serve your purpose?
2. Did you fully explain to the store staff what you wanted the product for?
3. Did you use the product only for the purpose described?
4. Did you examine the quality of the product before you purchased it?
5. Did you follow the instructions for the assembly, use and care of the product?
6. Are you unhappy with the product because it is a different size or colour than what you ordered?
7. Are you unhappy with the product because there are parts missing?
8. Are you unhappy with the product because it was delivered to you damaged or broken or it didn't last very long?
9. Are you unhappy with the product because it does not match the description or sample?
10. Are you unhappy with the product because you changed your mind about the colour, size or model you wanted?

You have a valid complaint if you answered:

• "Yes" to questions 1-5
• "Yes" to any of questions 6-9
• "No" to question 10

 

How to file a complaint

To determine if your dispute is valid, start with the Consumer Rights pathway. This free, online resource provides information tailored to your situation and helps assess the legitimacy of your concern.
 

To resolve your dispute, it is crucial to use the Consumer Rights pathway and attempt to resolve the dispute directly with the business. You can find helpful letter templates in the pathway to help communicate with the business.
 

The Consumer Rights pathway can be accessed at https://consumerrights.saskatchewan.ca/, or by clicking on the blue “Consumer Rights” button on the top right hand corner on our website homepage. If you cannot resolve your dispute with the business, you can file a formal dispute through Resolve My Consumer Dispute.  
 

If you have any questions about this process, please contact the Consumer Protection Division at 1-877-880-5550 or branch.consumerprotection@gov.sk.ca.

 

How to write a complaint letter

The following points may help you in writing an effective letter of complaint:

• Type your letter. Keep it short and keep a copy for your records.
• Be sure you complain to the person who has the authority to do something about your complaint.
• Identify the date and location of the purchase.
• Give a complete description of the goods or service you purchased.
• Explain the problem.
• Outline the action you have taken.
• Specify the action you expect and a reasonable time period.
• Provide a daytime phone number.
• Enclose copies of the relevant documents and keep the originals.

 

Frequently asked questions
 

• When I encounter unsatisfactory services or products, I just chalk it up as a learning experience. Why should I complain?
• How long after the incident should I issue my complaint?
• To whom should I direct my complaint?
• How can I complain effectively?
• What should I do if the seller refuses to recognize my complaint?

 

When I encounter unsatisfactory services or products, I just chalk it up as a learning experience. Why should I complain?

Legitimate complaints help everyone. Complaints help prevent unnecessary regulation and inferior goods in the marketplace. They also alert businesses to product quality as well as service and distribution problems.

 

How long after the incident should I issue my complaint?

The sooner, the better! There are legal time limits, depending on the situation, so act quickly.

 

To whom should I direct my complaint?

Always go to the seller first. All good businesses recognize a valid complaint as an opportunity rather than a bother. Be sure you are dealing with someone who has the authority to rectify the problem.

 

How can I complain effectively?

It is important to clearly identify the problem. You need to explain why you are dissatisfied and what you would like done to correct the problem. The best approach is to be polite but firm. Do not lose your temper or your sense of humor. Be persistent. Do not give up until you feel you have received a satisfactory response.

Make sure you have proof of payment or proof of dealings with the business. Make copies of receipts, canceled cheques, guarantees, and any other correspondence between yourself and the business. Never give away original copies.

It is important that you be reasonable and fair. You should determine the business's refund policy before making any purchases and ensure that you have properly complied with the terms and warranties. You have no legal right for a refund unless the goods are defective.

 

What should I do if the seller refuses to recognize my complaint?

When dealing with the seller fails, you may want to take your complaint to the next level. If you are complaining about product quality, the next step is to complain to the manufacturer. If the business belongs to a professional organization or association, the association may be willing to assist you with your problem. Otherwise, you may have to consider utilizing legal action to resolve your concerns or contact one of the following organizations for assistance:

• Consumer Protection Division of the Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan

The FCAA administers laws governing business practices, consumer product warranties, internet transactions, auctioneers, cemeteries, charitable fund-raising businesses, collection agents, credit reporting agencies, direct sellers, motor dealers, sellers of training courses, video outlets and film classifications.

Phone: (306) 787-5550 or toll free 1-877-880-5550.

• Better Business Bureau of Saskatchewan Inc.

The Better Business Bureau collects and reports information to help prospective buyers make informed decisions in dealing with both businesses and charitable organizations. The Better Business Bureau facilitates communication between the company and the consumer to help both sides come to a satisfactory resolution.

Phone: (306) 352-7601 or 1-888-352-7601

• Corporations Registry of Information Services Corporation

The corporate registry is the official record of the company or business which is required for any legal action.

Phone: (306)787-2962

• Industry Canada

Industry Canada handles complaints about misleading advertising, deceptive marketing practices, patents and copyrights, labeling, weights and measures, and bankruptcy information.

Phone: Ottawa 1-800-348-5358