Warm weather and sunny days mean people are coming out of their winter indoor hibernation, including door-to-door solicitors.
When someone knocks on the door, follow these BBB tips for safe and secure door-to-door sales:
Ask for credentials. Always ask for identification and licensing. Keep in mind that some businesses are not required to carry a direct seller license. Check with Service Alberta to find out which companies require licensing.
Beware of high-pressure sales tactics. Some alarm salespeople have been known to use fear to fuel sales. A vendor might spin tales of neighbourhood break-ins (which may or may not be true) to get you motivated to buy. Don’t be manipulated by emotions—use logic to make your purchasing decisions as much as possible.
Get it in writing. Be sure you receive a written contract or receipt that clearly explains the details of your purchase and all of the terms and conditions that apply.
Remember the “10-day Cooling-Off Rule.” Under certain conditions, the Fair Trading Act gives consumers 10 days to cancel certain purchases. Along with a receipt, the salesperson should always provide a cancellation form that can be sent to the company to cancel the purchase.
Research the company with BBB. Visit bbb.org to view the company’s BBB Business Review to view complaint details, ratings, customer reviews and more.
For more tips you can trust, visit bbb.org.
