Police tackle doorstep selling crime

Lincolnshire Police are supporting a new two-part national campaign, to protect the elderly and vulnerable residents from inappropriate or rogue doorstep traders.

The campaign, which launched on July 19 by the Office of Fair Trading, issued a number of tips to help people stay safe from illegal sellers.

Most doorstep seller are legitimate, but a small number aren’t, and use illegal pressure selling tactics and ignore legal rights.

Sgt Caroline Broughton, Community Safety for Lincolnshire Police said: “We work closely with trading Standards and other partner agencies to prevent such crimes.

“We would always say that the best prevention is not to answer the door in the first instance and if you have any suspicions, please report it immediately to the police.

“If you have elderly relatives or neighbours, please keep reinforcing this message to them.”

Top 10 tips are:

Don’t sign on the spot
Don’t feel pressured to agree on the spot – if you are interested in what they are selling, you can ask them to come back at another time that is more convenient for you, maybe when you have someone else with you or you have shopped around.

Check the trader’s identity
Always ask for an identity card and look up the organisation to check the salesperson’s identity is genuine. Don’t use the number on their card. Check if the trader is a member of a reputable trade body, like the Direct Selling Association, whose members should ensure their salespeople sell responsibly.

Be wary of special offers or warnings about your home
Don’t get taken in by sales banter or high pressure selling techniques. Don’t be hurried into a decision even if there is a discount. The discount might be on a price that is too high in the first place.

Always shop around for the best price
Check with other companies offering the same product first. Make sure the price and product is right for you.

Read the small print
Always read documents carefully before you sign them and make sure you fully understand your rights. It’s best to ask salespeople to call back so you can do this in your own time – don’t be rushed into signing before you feel ready.

Double check the facts
Make sure you fully understand the total costs of the transaction – including estimates, delivery and installation and the arrangements for after-sales servicing, such as the guarantees or warranties. Only agree to make a purchase once you’re entirely satisfied that the transaction is acceptable.

Talk to someone you trust for a second opinion
Take the time to talk to someone you trust – for example your family, a friend or carer – before you sign anything.

Don’t hand over a cash deposit
Avoid handing over money before work is started. A reliable trader will never ask you to do this (even if they need materials). Never agree to go with a trader to the bank to take money out.

Think very carefully before you agree to a trader starting any work straight away
If you agree to have any work done or goods delivered within the seven day cooling-off period, you may have to pay if you later change your mind and cancel the contract.

Trust your instincts
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

You can get more useful advice and tips, such as cancelling a contract, on the campaign’s website. Alternatively, call Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0845 04 05 06.

Source: Lincolnshire Police | Photo: News Works