Doorstep Security Companies

Background

There are a range of systems sold the most popular being a wireless alarm system with sensors and smoke alarms and a two way speaker. Also there will often be offered a monitoring service whereby the system is monitored 24 hours a day for a fee (monthly or annual fee) over and above the cost of the alarm system. If the system activates the consumer is contacted via the speaker. If no response is received the call centre will contact either a nominated person such as a neighbour/son/daughter or in some circumstances will inform the Police/Fire/Ambulance.

Often, sales pitches will include consumers being advised that the system is recommended by the police/fire services/ambulance service or that the company are linked to the local emergency services or that it is the subject of independent funding ie. European or Community Safety.

General Advice to Consumers

• If you are in any doubt about the seller or the product then just say 'No', do not invite the seller into your home and shut the door.
• You may ask the seller what will happen if you change your mind. In most cases there will be a 7 day cancellation period during which you may cancel the contract.
• It is worth remembering that most reputable sellers will allow you time to think about your purchase if your not sure.
• If you decide to purchase the goods or services offered it is advisable to obtain estimates/quotations from other providers to check whether prices are competitive.
• If you decide to make a purchase from the doorstep seller, always obtain a receipt detailing the full name and address of the company concerned.

Your Statutory Rights as a Consumer

• If you order an alarm system pursuant to a 'cold call' has 7 day cancellation period. This period commences on the date of the contract and expires 7 days after.
• However, if the system is installed prior to expiry of the 7 day then you may have to pay the suppliers costs of removing the alarm system from your property. Any money you have paid for the goods must be reimbursed to you by the supplier.
• Should the supplier try and install the system prior to the expiry of cancellation against your wishes, stand your ground, legislation provides you right to cancel within a specified 7 day cancellation period.
• If representations were made to you at the time the contract was made which transpire to be untrue then a you may have a civil claim for damages for misrepresentation. Further advice will be required in these circumstances.
• If you made payment by way of credit card then any breach of contract or misrepresentation by the supplier may give rise to a claim for damages.

Complaints

• If the company has indicated any recommendation of bodies such as Police, Trading Standards, Council, Neighbourhood watch etc or certificates have been produced in this regard.
• If the company indicate that the alarm is connected or receives priority from the Police, Ambulance and/or Fire Service.
• If the company claims that the police will not respond to unmonitored house alarms
• If you have not been provided with cancellation rights.
• If you are concerned about selling techniques, sales pitches and/or conduct of the sales representative.
• Any misleading information in respect of the product/service.

Trading Standards Division, 3rd Floor, Wallasey Town Hall, Brighton Street, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 8ED
Telephone: 08454 04 05 06    Fax: (0151) 691 8098
Internet World Wide Web http://www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/wirral/
Electronic Mail: tradingstandards@wirral.gov.uk