Doorstep selling advice for National Consumer Week
Released: 9 November 2007
Wolverhampton City Council Trading Standards want to make sure that our citizens feel safe at home during National Consumer Week, 12 to 16 November.
When people knock at your door remember: to say no to traders selling:
Cheap upholstered furniture: because ‘budget’ three-piece suites rarely fully meet UK fire safety legislation.
This is a nationwide problem which Trading Standards Services are combating by taking firm action against itinerant furniture sellers but also by discouraging people from buying such goods at the door.
Fire & Security Products: Elderly residents are often targeted by glib salesmen selling commercial fire and burglar alarms by frightening people with figures of rising burglary levels in their area.
‘Emergency’ Building Works: Don’t be taken in by the ‘nice’ builder who has noticed loose tiles on your roof or who has tarmac left over from a ‘big job round the corner’.
The work they do is invariably shoddy and costs often rise alarmingly once they start work.
Whilst door-to-door sales are legal, protect yourself by sticking to these key rules:
Don't sign or commit yourself to anything until you have had time to think it over and compare prices with other companies.
You maybe offered a 'special' discount, 'free' gift or other incentive if you agree to sign immediately. Don't feel pressured.
Make sure you read any agreement very carefully before signing, and if there's anything you don't understand, ask.
Don't sign anything until you are sure you know exactly what commitment you are making. and don't hand over any cash until you are completely satisfied.
If you do sign an agreement, make sure any promises are written as part of the contract. If the seller refuses , ask yourself why.
If you have not invited the trader to call he must give you a notice telling how to cancel the contract and how long you have to cancel.
If they do not give you the notice you are not bound by the agreement and the trader commits a criminal offence.
If you have any queries about a Door Step sale contact Trading Standards as soon as possible by ringing Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
Issued by the press office.