(HURON COUNTY, ON) – As the weather starts to warm up it generally brings an increase in the number of door-to-door sales visits. On Thursday, April 3, 2014 two suspicious males were canvassing homes in Goderich in an effort to inspect hot water tanks and to enlist customers into a hot water tank rental agreement.
In both cases the suspicious salespeople claimed to work for Reliance Water Heater however it was later determined they were working for another company.
Here are some tips to protect yourself when the next door-to-door salesperson shows up at your home.
Ask for Identification- Reputable companies use photo ID. Don’t let the salesperson start their pitch until you have seen photo ID. Get the name of the business and the name of the salesperson. If they don’t have identification with them they are likely scam artists.
Get the info in writing- Ask about the rental fees, installation, repair and extra service charges. Review the warranties and insist on getting the details in writing. Keep copies of this information.
Don’t sign on the spot- If the salesperson pressures you to sign on the spot, don’t. Shut the door or insist that you need additional time to read and understand the agreement. Reputable salespeople will carry brochures about their products or services. A “deal†is never only good for that visit. If you need further time to review the offer it will be there tomorrow.
Understand the agreement- How long does the agreement last? Are there any other costs other than the monthly rental? Are there fees if you cancel the agreement? Will the company renew the rental agreement without your prior written consent?
Know your consumer rights- The Ontario Consumer Protection Act protects people who enter into rental contracts for water heaters. You are entitled to a 10-day cooling off period to change your mind and opt out of any contract you sign for your water heater rental. The 10 days begin when you receive your copy of the written contract.
All charges within the contract must be exactly as they are stated. For example, a company is not allowed to add a surcharge that is not noted unless it is a tax. You have up to one year to cancel if the agreement does not meet certain requirements such as costs and contractual rights.
Remember, reputable companies comply with the law. If you believe the business or salesperson made a false, misleading or deceptive statement you may have further remedies under the Consumer Protection Act. Further information can be found at: www.ontario.ca/consumers/your-rights-under-consumer-protection-act