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Door-to-Door Alarm Sales Tactics Alarm
By Better Business Bureau
Posted: Tuesday, July 28th, 2009
Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be extremely cautious when answering the door to travelling alarm system salespersons. BBB has received complaints from homeowners who were subjected to high-pressure sales tactics, and felt deceived by the salesperson into buying an expensive alarm system.
Reports from consumers allege that representatives are going door-to-door and are stating affiliation with well-known security system companies in order to persuade them to sign up for their services. Concerns include the aggressive sales tactics to install the security systems, pricing issues, and further problems with contracts, which lock-in consumers to long-term service.
According to the RCMP, consumers were offered time-sensitive deals that included free installation and were promised that their security system would be linked directly to local RCMP and ambulance services, which is not possible in British Columbia.
BBB advises consumers to do their due diligence prior to making any decisions on home security systems:
Be aware of pressure sales tactics. Some unscrupulous door-to-door sellers will put pressure on you to close the deal at that moment, and try to entice you with special offers. Listen to his or her tone. Does it increase in volume? Do he or she ignore you despite saying you are not interested? Find a way to end the conversation quickly to avoid long, drawn-out pressure sales pitches.
Verify the individual. If you are interested in buying from a door-to-door seller, get everything in writing including price, warranty and all conditions. Tell the salesperson you will check it out and get back to him. Get the business card from the individual and check with the company to verify this person is an employee.
Ask for a licence. Security systems sellers are required to be licensed by the Ministry of Public Safety and Security and the seller is required to provide proof. The Ministry also handles complaints from both individuals and businesses. To learn more go to: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca
For more advice and to check out company reports, go to www.bbb.org AUGUST 2009 SENIOR LIVING VANCOUVER
AUGUST 2009 SENIOR LIVING VANCOUVER ISLAND
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You got to push it-this essntiael info that is!
Posted by: Deliverance | July 19th, 2011
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