Regulation - LGIC
Collection Agencies Prohibited Practices
Regulation Number(s):
R.S.O. 1990
L.R.O 1990
L.R.O 1990
Instrument Type:
Regulation - LGIC
Bill or Act:
Ontario Collection Agencies Act/ Loi sur les agences de recouvrement de l'Ontario
Summary of Decision:
The new regulation of the Collection Agencies Act responds to consumer complaints about collection agencies and harmonizes Ontario law with a nationwide list of prohibited practices to improve consumer protection.
Coming into force, the regulation adopts the nationally ratified list of prohibited practices, which includes:
- banning the use of threatening or profane language
- strengthening limits on contacting employers
- limiting contact with debtors who have referred the matter to their legal counsel or who suggest the matter be taken to court and
- clarifying definitions of harassment.
To help address the issue of consumer complaints about collection agencies, the regulation also provides a specific limit of no more than three calls to a debtor in any seven-day period. The ministry consulted with the collection industry to develop a standard to be followed by all collectors.
Coming into force, the regulation adopts the nationally ratified list of prohibited practices, which includes:
- banning the use of threatening or profane language
- strengthening limits on contacting employers
- limiting contact with debtors who have referred the matter to their legal counsel or who suggest the matter be taken to court and
- clarifying definitions of harassment.
To help address the issue of consumer complaints about collection agencies, the regulation also provides a specific limit of no more than three calls to a debtor in any seven-day period. The ministry consulted with the collection industry to develop a standard to be followed by all collectors.
Further Information:
Collection Agencies Act
Proposal Number:
05-MGS002
Posting Date:
October 3, 2005
Summary of Proposal:
Revised regulation to implement a nationally approved template of harmonized prohibited collection practices. The Ministry seeks public comment on two issues related to adopting the national agreement: addressing harassment through overly frequent calls and charges for NSF cheques.
Contact Address:
Ontario's Consumer Services Bureau
416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768
416-326-8800 or 1-800-889-9768
Effective Date:
June 1, 2006
Decision:
Approved