Trading Standards warns of summer rogue traders

Many traders who sell at the door are legitimate, but some are not. Rogue traders may use illegal pressure selling tactics to make people buy. The OFT suggests ten top tips to help people buy safely and with confidence on their doorstep – and advises how to say no, when necessary.

Latest Consumer Direct figures (1) reveal there were more than 2,085 complaints about doorstep selling in the South East in 2011. In Oxfordshire, between April 2011 and February 2012, 90 doorstep crime incidents were reported to Trading Standards.

In Oxfordshire the average loss to consumers was £570, but in some cases vulnerable consumers lost thousands of pounds. Oxfordshire Trading Standards was able to help recover or save £128,573 for consumers and seven criminals were convicted of doorstep crimes in the county.

Persuasive tactics

Research conducted nationally (2) on behalf of the OFT highlights the elderly as being particularly at risk of doorstep selling scams. One in five people interviewed aged over 70 admitted to not being confident when deciding whether to employ a tradesperson. A fifth did not recognise pressure sales tactics, such as paying cash in advance, or making a quick decision to get a good deal.

Kate Davies, Oxfordshire Trading Standards Team Leader for Consumer Advice and Intervention, said: “Not all doorstep sellers are bogus. However, unlawful traders can be unscrupulous and use a range of persuasive tactics to sell seemingly irresistible offers to unsuspecting people in their homes.

“In our experience, it is often the elderly and most vulnerable who are targeted. I’m urging everyone who knows or cares for a vulnerable, elderly person, whether a relative, friend, neighbour or carer to help when it comes to suspect door step approaches."

Always think twice

“No one should feel pressured into making a rash buying decision. If in doubt always think twice and get a second opinion. If you feel you have been targeted, or can see someone you know being targeted, please report it straight away.”

Judith Frame, Head of Campaigns at OFT, said: “Complaints about home maintenance and illegitimate doorstep sellers traditionally peak in the summer months. While it is not illegal to canvas for work door-to-door, rogue doorstep trading remains a serious issue for vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly who live alone.

“Decisions made on the doorstep can result in a great amount of distress for those who are duped out of money for substandard products or services. It is crucial to be aware of your consumer rights and share this knowledge.”

Cllr Judith Heathcoat, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet member for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: “We are happy to join with the Office of Fair Trading to give this timely advice to help keep our vulnerable residents safe from the pressure tactics used by rogue traders who turn up uninvited on their doorsteps.”

Top 10 tips on dealing with doorstep sellers:

1. Do not sign on the spot

Do not 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.

2. Check the trader’s identity

Always ask for an identity card and look up the organisation to check the salesperson’s identity is genuine. Do not 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.

3. Be wary of special offers or warnings about your home

Do not get taken in by sales banter or high-pressure selling techniques. Do not 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.

4. 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. You can find reliable, Trading Standards approved, traders in your local area by checking the Buy With Confidence scheme at the website www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk

5. Read the small print

Always read documents carefully before you sign them and make sure you fully understand your rights. It is best to ask salespeople to call back so you can do this in your own time. Do not be rushed into signing before you feel ready.

6. 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 are entirely satisfied the transaction is acceptable.

7. Talk to someone you trust for a second opinion

Take the time to talk to someone you trust – such as a family member, a friend or carer – before you sign anything.

8. Do not 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 materials are needed. Never agree to go with a trader to the bank to take money out.

9. Think carefully before allowing a trader to start 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.

10. Trust your instincts

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

And finally – remember it is all right to say no. It is your doorstep and your decision. If you feel pressured for any reason, ask the person to leave.

If in doubt, visit www.adviceguide.org.uk, or call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0845 04 05 06.

If you believe a doorstep crime is taking place right now against a vulnerable person please report it direct to Trading Standards on 0845 051 0845 (option 2).

Data

1 Consumer Direct data Jan – Dec 2011

2 SPA Future Thinking Doorstep Selling Research 2011 – 670 face-to-face interviews were conducted with respondents aged 70 plus. Locations were spread across Great Britain. Interviewing was conducted from 25th – 30th November 2011.