When salespeople knock on your door, they could represent any number of different legitimate products and services such as magazines, cleaning supplies and even frozen meat and poultry. They might also be itinerant workers who are offering a low-ball estimate to fix your roof or repave your driveway. Regardless of what they are selling, protect your home and your wallet by confirming their credentials.
The BBB recommends being cautious of a door to door salesperson or itinerant worker if they:
Use high pressure sales tactics. A reputable salesman will give you time to think through the deal and make an appointment to return at a later date and provide written information. Watch out if you’re asked to sign up immediately before you do your research. Do not give in to high-pressure sales tactics—even if the deal supposedly won’t last long or the salesperson is aggressive—it’s worth it to stop and think it over first.
Offer a deal that sounds too good to be true. Some salesmen might offer an extremely good price for their products or services. The adage holds true that you get what you pay for and many people have been quickly disappointed when the products didn’t live up to the hype or the company did a shoddy job.
Fail to follow federal law. Federal law requires that if you purchase more than $25 in goods, the salesperson must inform you of your rights to cancel within three business days. Called the “cooling off” rule, these rights are typically included with the company’s contact information on the receipt or contract. Each community, village, city or other body politic requires permits for door to door sales according to their own ordinances. Ask the salesperson to show his or her permit.
Work for a company with a poor rating from your BBB. Before you break out your checkbook, always check the company out with your BBB first to see their rating and if they have any complaints they’ve received in addition to BBB’s overall rating at www.bbb.org
Pay with a check or credit card—rather than cash—in order to take advantage of the consumer protections provided.
Shop only Accredited Businesses. For more information visit www.bbb.org/chicago
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