Door-to-Door ‘Deals’

When someone knocks on your door or calls you, most people’s innate manners will have them answer, and hear whoever it is out. These salespeople are simply doing their job, but not all of them are entirely honourable in their dealings. If you are faced with a direct salesperson (who has approached you unbidden), be aware of your rights and potential problems.

Unfortunately, older people are often conned or talked into buying items they don’t need, paying too much, or persuaded to disclose financial details by unscrupulous salesmen. Have you ever been talked into buying or signing up for something by someone who knocks on your door?

Know Your Rights and Take Your Time

It is your absolute right to take as much time as you need to think over any purchase you make. Never be rushed by someone who has visited or phoned you. If they are offering a deal requiring an answer on the spot, and you feel, in any way, pressured, the prudent answer is no. Do not be drawn into a discussion as to why. It is your money to spend, and your right to refuse their offer. If you would like to talk about it, contact a family member or respected friend and talk it over with them. Alternatively, contact another company providing the same service, and ask for an indication of costs so you can see if what you have been offered is reasonable.

Using Tradespeople

When hiring a tradesperson, be cautious about payment arrangements. You may negotiate paying them in instalments, but be extremely wary (i.e., don’t!) of paying in advance before the job is completed. Once you have paid in full, it can be hard to insist they turn up and finish. Ask to see the trade invoice from their supplier before paying for materials, and insist on a receipt for payment of any materials on the day you pay for them.

Affordability and Necessity

If you decide to go ahead with any purchase, whether for goods or services, make sure you can afford it. Don’t be fooled into ‘saving’ a vast amount on something you didn’t need in the first place! If you decide to buy from someone at the door, make sure they allow you time to get someone else to look over the contract. If they have nothing to hide, they should be happy for you to do so.

Saying No

Saying no can be hard. If you do not want any door-to-door salesmen knocking on your door, you can get a ‘Do Not Knock. Salespeople not welcome here’ sticker to put at your letterbox or beside your front door. You can also give someone a verbal trespass notice if they do not leave willingly, see more here.

Additional Tips:

1. Verify Credentials: Always ask for identification and verify the credentials of any salesperson or tradesperson. Legitimate professionals should have no problem providing this information. If you are in any way unsure if the person is genuinely from the company they say they are from, look for their phone number online and call it to confirm they have sent someone to your area.
2. Research the Company: Take the time to research the company online. Look for reviews and ratings from other customers.
3. Cooling-Off Period: Under the Fair Trading Act, door-to-door sales have a cooling-off period, during which you can cancel a contract without penalty.
4. Use Technology: Consider using technology like security cameras or doorbell cameras to screen visitors before answering the door.

Summary

• Don’t sign up for something on the spot.
• Get someone else to look over a contract.
• Don’t pay for work before it is completed.
• Make sure you get a receipt.
• Don’t let a salesman take you to the bank to get money out.
• If you ask them to leave and they don’t, call the Police.
• If you are required to make a progress payment on a big job, make sure it is only for the value of the work done to date.

By being informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from potential scams and make sure any purchase or agreement you enter into is in your best interest.