Doorstep sales and bogus callers
If you receive an uninvited doorstep caller offering goods or services, Trading Standards (Tel: 01437 764551) offer the following advice:
- Do not let them in
- Ask them to leave their contact details and details of any offers in writing so you can make further enquiries and consider it
- Don’t make impulsive decisions or sign anything until you’ve had time to think it over
- Ask the caller what happens if you change your mind because in most cases the law allows you a 14 day cooling off period to change your mind and cancel the contract. This must be given in writing at the time of the agreement
- Do not provide personal details on request, especially any financial information
Be suspicious if a doorstep caller:
- Will not provide any written details
- Pressurises you to make a decision
- Claims the offer is only available that day
- Is unable to call back
- Makes an offer that sounds too good to be true
- States you cannot change your mind or cancel the contract
Not all doorstep callers are bogus but beware that bogus callers are initially very believable and polite.
If you are concerned about a doorstep caller who is:
- still at your home; or
- due to return e.g. to collect payment; or
- offering to take you to the bank to withdraw cash
phone the police on 101 and report the matter to Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133 and Welsh line 0808 223 1144. They can also provide advice.