New rules about doorstep selling came into force yesterday, 1st October.
The Doorstep Selling Regulations cover all salespeople who visit consumers in their homes to sell any goods and services such as conservatories, double glazing, orthopaedic furniture and utility contracts.
The law has always provided a one week cooling off period when buying from salespeople whose visit has not been sought out by the homeowner. However, changes to the regulations mean that provided the transaction is for more than £35, consumers will now have a seven day period in which to cancel any agreement they enter into, regardless of whether they initiated the visit or not.
The new regulations also mean that doorstep sellers are required to inform customers in writing of their right to cancel.
For more details go to:
http://www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/before_you_buy/be_aware_of/doorstep-selling#named2
This is a welcome development as it means that there is a realisation that people can suffer pressure selling on their doorstep. The additional consumer protection granted will be a useful addition.
John Higgins
http://www.equity-release-expert.co.uk