After a pair of fraud related stories emerged out of the region, the Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan (FCAA) is doing their best to safeguard residents against any further problems.
Two emailed releases shared similar tips, relating to separate situations out of Rosetown and North Battleford. Locals will recognize the first story, a reported incident involving an unlicensed paving company roaming the Rosetown area acting as door-to-door sellers offering their services. The other warning came after word of unlicensed individuals selling security cameras and security systems around North Battleford.
The FCAA notes that only sellers licensed by the FCAA are eligible for door-to-door sales, and that these "direct sellers" must be licensed pursuant to The Direct Sellers Act and Regulations, adhering to specific contract requirements and cancellation rules. A comprehensive list of these sellers is available HERE.
The FCAA also left readers with these general tips to consider in terms of door-to-door sales and purchases:
Tips for Consumers Considering Door-to-Door Purchases
If you decide to purchase goods or services from a door-to-door seller, consider the following tips:
- Ask to see a copy of their licence and verify their listing on FCAA411
- Read the contract carefully, including the fine print.
- Ask questions if you do not understand something.
- Do not feel pressured to make an immediate purchase.
- Keep down payments to a minimum; the higher the amount paid in advance, the greater the risk of loss.
- Never hand over a blank cheque.
- Avoid paying in cash or agreeing to services without documentation.
- Check the seller's rating and customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau directory at https://www.bbb.org/ or call 1-888-352-7601.
Consumer Rights for Door-to-Door Sales
If a salesperson comes to your door, here are some rights you should be aware of:
- All contracts must be in writing unless the sale is less than $100.
- All direct sales contracts must include a statement of cancellation rights.
- You have 10 days to cancel a contract without needing to provide a reason.
- If a contract is canceled, the vendor must refund all money received under the contract within 15 days of cancellation