WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17: Government has today asked businesses for their input as it looks at strengthening the Island’s Consumer Protection Act.

Companies have until November 30 to address any concerns regarding proposed amendments to the 1999 legislation.

The proposed amendments include a clear definition of the words ‘estimate’ and ‘quote’ and address an “all too common practice” where businesses undertake work not previously agreed upon with the client.

Said a Government spokesperson: “As such, providers of goods and services to consumers will no longer be allowed to go beyond the original agreement entered into without first obtaining the agreement of the consumer.

“In addition, providers of goods and services can no longer require a consumer to pay 100 percent of the price as a deposit for goods and services they have not received. Providers and consumers can agree to a deposit of up to 50 percent if it is reasonable to do so in respect of the particular transaction of the estimated price or quoted price.”

A copy of the proposed amendments can be obtained from the Department of Consumer Affairs at 129 Front Street. Businesses must submit any concerns to the department within the next two weeks.

For the full story read tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.