Who's Knocking at Your Door?

Dealing With Doorstep Sellers

People trying to sell you something will give you all sorts of reasons why you should sign up with them straight away. Here are some comments heard recently in Staffordshire:

"I've just seen some loose tiles on your roof."
"We're in the area today, so we can do you a fantastic deal if you sign up today."
"I can give you a lift to the building society to get some cash out"

Whatever you are told, it is never a good idea to sign up there and then.

Take some time to think about the deal you are being offered, is it really what you want? Doorstep sellers are very persuasive and they will often earn a lot of money if they make a sale.

Check the company out, ask your friends and neighbours for a recommendation. Callers do not have to have any qualifications or experience to knock on your door, so ask for references before you believe any claims.

Get two or three prices and compare them. Always ask for a written estimate and check the small print, If the estimate doesn't make sense, get advice.

Don't hand over large cash deposits. Only pay for work as it is completed. If the seller insists that you pay a large deposit, you should ask yourself whether the work will ever be finished.

Reputable companies will not expect you to sign up immediately.

If a trader calls at your home uninvited, you usually have a right to cancel any contract you sign, provided you write to the company, within seven days.

However, you do not always have the right to cancel a contract. It is best not to sign anything straight away.

Reputable companies will always give you time to think it over.

Don't pay the final bill until everything has been finished properly. Check the work yourself and if you are not satisfied, ask someone else to look at it before you pay.

Remember, once you have paid, it can be more difficult to get faults put right.

Reputable companies will wait until you are satisfied.

Remember

Have a safety chain fitted and never unlock it until you are sure of the caller's identity.
Always ask to see the caller's identification and examine it carefully.
Phone the seller's office to check their identity. Use the number in the phone book.
Never sign a contract until you are sure of the consequences.
Never hand over cash in advance, without seeking advice.
Always keep a note of the contractor's name, address and phone number.

Further advice and information can be obtained from Staffordshire County Council Trading Standards at:

Consumer Advice - Consumer Direct
Tel: 08454 04 05 06
E mail: consumer.advice@staffordshire.gov.uk
Minicom: 01785 854156

14 Martin Street,
Stafford,
ST16 2LG

All of our information leaflets are available in a range of formats and languages, including Braille and large print. If this would be useful to you or someone you know, please contact us.

Last Modified: 17/03/2006 12:45:39
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