What’s new: In brief (March 31, 2005)

The Ontario government’s “Consumer Protection Act”, which comes into force on July 30, will require the use of aftermarket parts in auto repairs to be identified in writing to the consumer. In a bulletin to members, Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA) says shops will now be required to provide a written estimate prior to performing repairs, but adds they can charge a “reasonable” fee for providing the estimate if the repairs are not carried out. If a written estimate is not provided, the shop cannot charge for the repairs, unless the customer waives the estimate or authorizes a maximum total cost. Information on estimate fees, pricing, labor rates and policies must now be posted on signs in shops.

The Ontario Risk & Insurance Management Society (ORIMS) will receive the 2004 Award for Outstanding Member Services at this year’s RIMS Conference in Philadelphia in mid-April. ORIMS also wants to give advance notice that its annual golf tournament is set for Tuesday, June 28, with details to come.

Willis Canada is holding two breakfast seminars at the Metro Toronto Board of Trade. The first, on April 8, deals with “survival skills for directors and officers in Canada”. The second, on April 28, tackles “terrorism in Canada what you don’t know”. For more information on these seminars, contact Graziella Infanti at 416-216-0772 or email: graziella.infanti@willis.com.