Don’t get forced into purchase from door-to-door salespeople

Published 8:35 pm Saturday, May 2, 2015

Door-to-door salespeople marketing everything from magazine subscriptions, alarm systems, cleaning supplies and all types of handyman work typically hit the pavement from mid-March through the end of September.

While many reputable companies do utilize door-to-door solicitations as a marketing tactic, BBB warns consumers to be on the lookout for offers that sound too good to be true and for salespeople using high pressure sales practices.

Common complaints regarding door-to-door sales include purchased items not arriving by the promised date or failing to arrive at all, difficulty contacting the salesperson or company after the purchase or work is completed and difficulties with cancellation or refund requests.

Consumers should refrain from doing business with those who use high pressure sales tactics, arrive in unmarked vehicles, do not have company letterhead or business cards and require cash payment.

Your BBB recommends the following tips when dealing with door-to-door solicitations:

nVerify all information. After requesting to see identification from a salesperson, directly contact the company they claim to represent for verification. Only use known contact information for the company, and never confirm through a phone number provided by the solicitor.

n Research the company. Go to bbb.org to review the company’s track record. Keep in mind that even if a salesperson has taken the required steps to obtain any necessary solicitation permits for your area, this does not automatically mean they can be trusted or they meet any additional industry licensing or registration requirements.

Look for local companies, not only to help the local economy, but also so the company is accessible should you need them to return to fulfill a warranty or for any other reasons. You can find reputable, local businesses at northalabama. bbb.org.

Seek at least three bids from prospective contractors based on the same specifications, materials and labor needed to complete the project. Homeowners should discuss bids in detail with each contractor and ask questions about variations in pricing. The lowest-priced contractor may not be the best.

n Get everything in writing. Obtain all verbal promises in a written contract, including payment terms, any warranties or refund/return policies and start and completion dates for projects. Never sign a contract that contains blank spaces, and request a copy of the contract at the time of signing.

n Protect your identity. Some unscrupulous salespeople have been known to allege representation of consumers’ current utility service providers, banks or credit card companies in order to appear legitimate. These dishonest “salespeople” will request account numbers and other personal information to supposedly verify your account, determine eligibility for upgrades or even prevent service from being shut off. Keep in mind if you are already associated with a company, they should have access to this information.

n Pay with a credit card. Payment by credit card, rather than cash, check or wire transfer is the safest method for you to conduct a financial transaction since certain consumer protections are provided.

n Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics. A trustworthy company will allow you time to think about the purchase and compare prices before requiring payment and/or signing a contract. Some door-to-door salespeople will put pressure on you to close the deal immediately. If you feel pressured, don’t be afraid to end the conversation.

If you feel threatened or unsafe as a result of any door-to-door sales experience, report the incident to local law enforcement immediately, and please call the BBB Hotline: 903-581-8373.