Consumer protection consultation

The Government of Alberta is seeking input on a proposed modernized licensing and regulatory framework for direct selling and prepaid contracting under the Consumer Protection Act. The initiative aims to simplify requirements for businesses while strengthening consumer protections.

Alberta currently has two regulations that establish similar but separate licensing requirements for direct (door-to-door) selling and prepaid contracting.     

Direct selling means soliciting, negotiating, or concluding a contract with a consumer at any place other than the seller’s place of business. Common examples include home security systems or home cleaning services.    

Prepaid contracting means soliciting, negotiating, or concluding a contract for work related to a residential property with a consumer at any place other than the seller’s place of business if any payment is due before all the work is completed. Pre-paid contracting activities include activities like construction, repairs, renovations, maintenance, and landscaping.    

Direct selling and prepaid contracting activities regularly lead to consumer complaints related to deceptive, misleading, or high-pressure sales tactics, as well as consumer losses when the work is not completed.     

Stakeholders and businesses are invited to complete a questionnaire by May 27, 2026 to help inform the development of this updated framework.

 Direct Selling and Prepaid Contracting - Engagement Questionnaire