Despite the cold weather in the region, our office has been receiving phone calls recently about door-to-door salesmen offering various products and services. Sometimes the product is something the consumer doesn't have, but other times, it is a pitch to change services. While BBB does recognize that door-to-door sales are still a way for businesses to sell goods and services, there are things consumers should look out for if someone approaches their door.

Don’t be pressured into buying something you don’t want or need. A reputable company will let you check out the offer and compare bids from several installers. If the salesperson is really interested in gaining your business, they will leave a business card and have you contact them later. Make sure to read over any contract and make sure it includes all promises and incentives made by the salesperson. If the promises are not in the contract do not sign it.

Remember, the Federal Trade Commission’s Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule gives the customer three days to cancel purchases over $25 that are made in their home or at a location that is not the seller’s permanent place of business. Along with a receipt, salespeople should also include a completed cancellation form that customers can send to the company to cancel the agreement. By law, the company must give customers a refund within 10 days of receiving the cancellation notice.