(NORFOLK COUNTY, ON) – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Norfolk County Detachment want all residents to be very cautious when individuals arrive at your door asking to inspect your furnace.
The OPP have received various calls from Monday, November 18, 2013 to Thursday November 21, 2013 from concerned citizens regarding individuals arriving at their door asking to inspect their furnace. The calls have been received from Simcoe, Delhi, Port Dover and Waterford addresses in Norfolk County, Ontario.
“They may ask to see your utility bill, or to inspect your equipment for efficiency. If they claim to represent the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) or a major gas company, police need you to know that the OEB or major gas companies do not solicit door to door. Police want all homeowners to be vigilant and to verify all details before allowing any stranger access to your residence to inspect your furnaceâ€, comments Constable Ed Sanchuk, Norfolk County OPP.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when the salesperson knocks on your door:
Ask for identification
Don’t even let the salesperson start the pitch until you’ve seen a photo ID and the peddler’s licence that allows for door to door sales. Get the name of the business and the name of the salesperson or close the door.
Get it in writing
Ask about any fees, installation, repair and extra service charges and promises, such as warranties – and insist on getting these details in writing. Demand to keep a copy of any written material that the salesperson shows you.
Don’t sign on the spot
If the salesperson pressures you to sign on the spot, don’t. Shut the door, or insist you need more time to read and understand the agreement, including the fine print.
Check before you buy
You should also know that when you buy a home, you may be taking on the responsibility for an existing water heater or furnace agreement that comes with the home. Ask the homeowner, your real estate agent or your lawyer for more information before you buy.
Water Heater / Furnace Rentals – Understand the Agreement
If this agreement is too complicated to understand, maybe you should deal with someone else. Know the terms of the agreement before any decisions are made.
You should find out:
How long does the agreement last?
Will the business try to renew the agreement automatically without contacting you first (for example, does the agreement say “without your prior consentâ€)?
Are there any costs other than monthly rental?
If you change your mind and want to get out of the agreement, what extra costs might you face? For example, will you have to pay a cost to remove the water heater or furnace?
Misleading statements
If you believe the business or salesperson made a false, misleading or deceptive statement, you may have additional remedies. Contact the Ministry of Consumer Services for more information.