Investigators
OMVIC’s investigators are appointed under the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act, 2002 (MVDA) and the Provincial Offences Act.
They are empowered to conduct investigations and lay charges under several relevant legislations including the MVDA and the Consumer Protection Act, 2002.
- Investigations usually start after receiving information from various sources, including:
- If proven, investigations can result in:
- Prosecution
- Issuance of a proposal for revocation of registration
- Referral to the OMVIC Discipline Committee.
Investigations
Investigations fall into two broad categories:
- Unregistered activity (curbsiders)
Curbsiders are unlicensed dealers. They are in the business of selling vehicles, but often pose as private sellers. For a list of curbsider convictions, click here.
- Dealer/salesperson misconduct
This typically involves allegations of non-compliant advertising, failure to disclose required information, falsification of records or unfair business practices (false, misleading, deceptive or unconscionable representations). To determine if a dealer/ saleperson has been charged or convicted of an offence under the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act or other consumer protection legislation (e.g. Consumer Protection Act), search for the dealer/ salesperson here. Carefully and thoroughly review the search results.
The law requires dealers and salespeople to cooperate with an investigation.