Better
Business Bureau is warning consumers to be extremely cautious when answering
the door to traveling alarm system salespersons. BBB has received complaints
from homeowners across North America who were
subjected to high-pressure sales tactics and felt deceived by the salesperson
into buying an expensive alarm system.
BBB
received more than 2,000 complaints against burglar alarm companies in 2008, a
68 percent increase over the previous year. Already this year, many BBBs across North America have issued warnings to locals regarding
door-to-door alarm salesmen making the rounds.
Many
complainants allege that the salesperson used high-pressure sales tactics and
made claims that were not included in the final contract. In addition, there have been reports that some
companies are not attaining the correct licensing to sell door-to-door or
legally sell and install alarm systems in areas they are soliciting.
“Every
summer alarm salesmen hit the pavement and every summer BBB receives a rash of
complaints from consumers who feel they were ripped off,” said Frank Whitney
CEO of the MidCal BBB. “Even if the salesperson claims it’s a limited offer and
they must act now, consumers must always stop and do their research before
purchasing any products or services.”
BBB
offers the following advice for consumers on how to avoid becoming a victim of
a deceptive door-to-door alarm salesperson:
- Deal only with reputable firms and check out the company at the
Better Business Bureau’s Web site, www.bbb.org.
- 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.
- Some companies will offer a “free” alarm system. While the
equipment and installation may be free (make sure this is in writing),
there is a monthly monitoring fee. When you compare costs, make sure you
compare all the costs.
- Find out about local building codes and regulations regarding
burglar alarms (including costs for false alarms).
- Check out the company that will be monitoring your system. Ask if
it is the same company you are signing a contract with. If not, make sure
you obtain the name, address and phone number of this company.
- Consider advantages and disadvantages of each system and decide
which will be best for your particular situation.
- Does the company call you first before notifying the police?
- Does the company call the police first?
- Does the company have a security patrol car that will check out
the alarm and if necessary call the police?
- How soon after the alarm sounds will you be notified?
- What happens if the alarm company is unable to reach you when the
alarm is sounding? Is the alarm reset? Are the police called? Are
alternate numbers called?
- Ask for procedures in writing, so you are aware of the steps and
can anticipate how you can best handle the situation.
- Make sure it includes all promises made by the sales person. If the
promises are not in the contract do not sign the contract.
- Study the contract carefully. Confirm information such as:
- Installation price
- Monthly price
- Length of the contract (most contracts are for at least two years)
- That any free or discount offers have been added
- Cancellation time frame to cancel the contract. The Federal Trade
Commission requires that at least three days be provided (www.ftc.gov,
three day cooling off rule).
- If you are planning on moving ask what happens with your contract,
and get that information in writing from the sales person.
- After your purchase, make sure you check the system routinely to be
sure it is in working order—by not doing this, you could be in violation
of your contract.
- If you are having problems with your alarm, make sure you document
dates, times, who you talked with, who came out and what was fixed.
For
more advice on keeping your home and personal property safe, visit www.bbb.org