Beware Of Door-to-Door Security Offers – Too Good to be True?

When it’s time to commit to a home security system, make sure that you are looking for the security system, no the other way around.

Door-to-door home security system salespeople can be problematic and even dangerous. While there are always honest people, the chances are a door to door security system salesperson is aiming to rip you off – no matter how charming and inviting they may seem.

Never buy from someone who solicits you. Take the time to consider the security system and the purchase. However, if for some reason, you do decide to move ahead on the spot, check the security system sales contract to make sure that if you change your mind, you can receive a full refund. This is called the cooling-off period.

Any honest and reputable security system company representative should give you two copies of a cancellation form that you need to sign, date and mail. You don’t have to have any reason for canceling. If you don’t get a cancellation form and you change your mind, write a letter. Because the seller broke the law by not giving you a cancellation form, you have extra time to cancel, however you must still cancel in writing..

Door-to-door con artists often:

Greet you by name to seem friendly.

Use tricks to get into your home. They might imply they are from your current security system company and need to test or upgrade your system. Don’t let a creative story get your guard down.

Offer a free upgrade or free security system – always check the fine print, you will pay for the system somehow.

Pressure you to make a decision. They may say the offer is only good that day.

You have three days to cancel a door-to-door sales order.

A salesperson who visits your home may be required to have a peddlers, sales or solicitor’s license or permit. Check with the consumer protection office in your jurisdiction for more information.

Take your time making a decision.

Get several estimates and compare.

Check the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) or consumer affairs office about the company.

Read the information carefully to be sure you know what the quoted price includes.

If the salesperson claims to be from your security system company ask for their license or call the company to verify.