Door to Door Sales
When it comes to door-to-door sales, know that you have rights. Protect yourself by being aware and trusting your instincts. The following tips apply to everyone, no matter what type of residence you live in.
- If you don't feel comfortable, don't open your door. It's not rude, it's safe. If you're uncomfortable, don't be afraid to ask them to leave then lock your door.
- You have the right to ask for ID. Don't be afraid to ask for identification from anyone approaching your home.
- Remember, you are in no way obligated to provide any personal information to salespeople or contractors that come to your door. This includes showing them bills, giving them water samples for testing, answering questions about security features in your home, etc.
- Don't be pressured to sign anything at your door.
- Protect yourself by doing research before buying anything at your door. Being pressured for a "one time deal" or being discouraged from researching your options should raise a red flag.
When in doubt, keep them out! A salesperson or contractor asking to enter your home should be concerning.
Certain products and services can no longer be offered or sold at your home unless you initiate the transaction (for example, by calling or emailing a business and asking them to come to your home for the purpose of entering into a contract.) There are some exceptions including instances where you already have a contract in place.
These restricted products and services include:
- furnaces
- air conditioners
- air cleaners
- air purifiers
- water heaters
- water treatment devices
- water purifiers
- water filters
- water softeners
- duct cleaning services
- any good or service that performs or combines one or more of the above functions
Businesses will be able to enter into a contract at your home if you contacted them ahead of time and invited them to your home for the purpose of buying or leasing one of the restricted products and services.
If you call for a repair, maintenance, an energy assessment, or any reason other than entering into a contract for one of these items and the business comes to your home, the business cannot enter into a new contract with you. They will only be able to leave information about the products and services they offer.
Products and services not listed on this page can still be sold door-to-door but businesses must still follow other requirements under the Consumer Protection Act.
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