Upcoming HST prompting growth of the underground economy, warns Toronto
roofing executive
TORONTO, June 3 /CNW/ - Fears that Ontario's new HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) will spur growth of the underground economy are being borne out a full month before the new tax is enacted, warns Craig Bennett, Deputy Director of Avenue Road Roofing, a Toronto-based roofing company.
"We are getting more and more reports that roofing contractors are trying to attract sales by promising the buyer a no-tax deal, provided that payment is made with cash," said Mr. Bennett. "It's becoming more prevalent than ever before and we are still a month away from implementation of the HST on July 1. What is it going to be like after July 1?"
Mr. Bennett added that many consumers still have misconceptions about the HST, particularly in terms of what has to be done to "beat the HST". The biggest misconception, says Mr. Bennett, is that you can save the HST by making some form of commitment before July 1, but taking delivery after July 1.
"The truth is that you have to make full payment and take delivery before July 1, so if you are buying a new roof and want to beat the HST, you need to pay for that roof and have it installed before July 1."
Mr. Bennett urges all consumers to avoid the underground economy because it "just ends up hurting us all in the end." He also suggests that consumers learn more about the HST by visiting the web page set up by the Ontario Government to explain the program (http://www.rev.gov.on.ca/en/taxchange/index.html).
For further information: Craig Bennett by email [email protected] or phone (416) 785-5129, ext. 284; Avenue Road Roofing, 45 Wingold Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M6B 1P8, Tel: (416) 785-5129, Fax: (416) 785-6485, www.avenueroadroofing.com
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