Buying from a door-to-door salesperson

How do I know if a door-to-door salesperson is legitimate?

Ask to see the seller's license or identification. It is a good idea to call the Consumer Protection Branch at (306) 787-5550 or 1-888-374-4636 (toll free in Saskatchewan) to determine whether the company has a license to sell in the province. The Consumer Protection Branch will also be able to tell you if the individual direct seller is required to have either a license issued by the Branch or company issued identification, if exempt from licensing.

Should I sign a contract when buying a product from a door-to-door seller?

A direct sales contract must be in writing and should contain the name and address of the company and the conditions on which the contract can be canceled. The seller is required to provide you with a copy immediately after you sign it.

However, a contract is not required if the sale is less than $100. If your contract is for an amount less than $100, you must receive a copy of your right to cancel the contract.

What can I do if I decide I do not want the product?

Door-to-door sales come with a 10-day "cooling-off period" that allows you to change your mind. To cancel the contract, you must send a cancellation notice to the seller via fax, registered mail or in person. You can also cancel the contract if the direct sale was solicited from outside Saskatchewan. There are extended cancellation rights of up to one year if the direct seller was not licensed or the goods or service are not provided within 30 days of the specified date. Following cancellation, the direct seller must refund any money or trade-ins within 15 days.

I am leery of obtaining a service from a door-to-door salesperson. How can I protect myself?

When spending large sums of money on such things as home repairs, you should get at least two other estimates from local businesses. Compare the estimates and then decide on a reasonable price. Remember, an extremely low price may indicate poor quality materials and workmanship.

Some home renovation contractors are licensed under The Direct Sellers Act. Those contractors are not permitted to make a consumer pay more than 15 percent of the total contract amount as a deposit before the expiration of the 10 day cooling off period (the length of time you have to change your mind).

Tips for dealing with door-to-door salespeople:

Do get promises in writing.
Do deal only with direct sales companies that are licensed.
Do report any unlicensed, suspicious sellers to the police.
Do write down the name, address and phone number of the company and salesperson.
Do get estimates from two or three reputable companies.
Do take your time before you sign a contract. Read it carefully, sleep on it and talk it over with someone you trust.
Do ask for references from home improvement contractors and check them out.
Do compare prices and products.
Do be skeptical of any service or repair person who just "happens" to be passing by, notices something that needs fixing on your property and offers to do the work at great savings.
Don't accept verbal promises. Get them in writing.
Don't be fooled by "fly-by-night" operators. Deal with reputable companies.
Don't be rushed or pressured into signing a contract.
Don't worry if you change your mind. The law says you have 10 days to cancel a direct sales contract.
Don't be afraid to say no. Be assertive and firm.
Don't sign a document or blank piece of paper just to get rid of the salesperson. The paper could be a contract.
Don't pay cash. Make your cheque or money order payable to the company, not the salesperson.
Don't advance the full payment for a job. A small deposit or a down payment should be enough.