The following is general information on door-to-door services.
No matter how honest door-to-door salespeople look or how great their sales pitch sounds, check out all offers before you buy. If you are interested in the merchandise being offered and a considerable sum of money is involved, don't be afraid to ask them to return later. And if salespeople try to pressure you to make a decision on the spot, be suspicious. An honest salesperson won't try to rush you.
Ask for some identification and get the name, address and phone number of the company. Then call the Better Business Bureau and ask for a reliability report.
When signing a contract for a door-to-door sale, or any sale for that matter, be certain you understand and agree with everything it contains. Every promise the salesperson makes should be in writing. All financing arrangements should be included. Don't be fooled by the promise of low monthly payments. Check out any interest charges by comparing them to those charged by various lending institutions.
If the contract is complex it may be wise to have it checked out by a lawyer.
Finally, be sure you get a receipt. Save it in case problems develop.
If you change your mind after the sale, the Fair Trading Act protects you. People have 10 days to change their minds about any purchases of 25 dollars or more. It applies to sales solicited, negotiated and concluded in your home. However, it does not apply to sales made at the seller's normal place of business, sales made totally by mail or phone, sales under 25 dollars, real estate, insurance or securities. Under the rule, the contract must include your right to cancel.
Cancellations should be made in writing. Check to see that the contract or receipt is dated and contains the name and address of the seller. The cooling off rule will help to protect you.
This tip was brought to you by the Better Business Bureau of Central and Northern Alberta.