6/2/2007

Flintshire County Council Trading Standards Officers have received inquiries from householders who report telephone calls out of the blue from a trader offering them the chance to buy an intruder alarm at a bargain price.

The advice to householders is: "Ask yourself, Is the company really able to offer an expensive system free of charge? Do customers taking advantage of the offer have to sign up for an expensive maintenance or monitoring agreement, with a minimum period of 3 years?"

People who do receive a call, offering a free demonstration should remember that you have a seven day cooling off period to give you the chance to compare product and price and to discuss it with someone you trust. Insist on a detailed written quotation. Insist on using your seven day cooling off period.

Do not agree to have any work done inside the seven day period. Your cancellation rights may be reduced if you agree to have work done.

Do notpay cash – you can trace a cheque.

Consider whether you want the product. If you do, use reputable, established companies who you will be able to contact if things go wrong. Ask relatives and friends for recommendations.

Stay in control – don’t let a doorstep trader decide how you should spend your money.

If you are worried about unsolicited calls or if you would like further advice please contact Consumer Direct Wales 0845 04 05 05 (Welsh) 0845 04 05 06 (English).