We typically hear about sales pitches involving home improvement work, magazine sales, meat sales and home security alarms. The majority of these door-to-door complaints are filed during the warmer months, so now is the time to be on guard.
A legitimate business is going to have some form of identification on them, so you can contact the company directly and ask about the salesperson who just showed up at your door. If they are vague about who they work for it may be because the company doesn't exist. Also, be careful if the salesperson is pushy or tries to enter your home.
Be wary if they ask specific questions such as "How many people live in the home," or "When is the best time to come back" … they could be trying to determine when the house will be vacant. If you are interested in working with the company, you can still schedule a time for them to come back without telling them when the house will be empty.
Ask for the salesperson's identification. Any legitimate salesperson should be able to provide identification for both themselves and their company such as a permit, business license or business card.
Resist high-pressure sales tactics. A reputable seller will give consumers time to think through the deal. Avoid sellers who need an immediate answer, offer "Once in a lifetime" or "Today only" deals and
Put pressure into signing a contract.
Remember the federal trade commission's "Cooling-off rule." this rule gives consumers three days to cancel purchases over $25 made at their home or other location that is not the seller's permanent place of business.
Better business bureau has a number of resources to help protect your money. Find more at https://www.bbb.org/en/us
