By the City of Diamond Bar Staff
Officials offer tips for residents to beware and potentially identify deceptive door-to-door salespeople.
Scams involving deceptive door-to-door salespeople are among the most common complaints received by the Better Business Bureau, which is why taking the following steps is strongly encouraged:
Before making a front porch purchase, ask the salesperson to see a valid City business license--all individuals and businesses doing work within city limits, whether or not they have a physical structure in the city, are required to have a business license.
Do not feel pressured to make a hasty decision to purchase; instead tell the seller to give you time to think it over, and research the company or charity with the Better Business Bureau--www.bbb.org. If you own a smart device, downloading the free BBB app is a fast and convenient way to access a company’s report.
If the company proves to be legitimate and you decide to proceed with the purchase, be certain to get transaction details in writing. In addition
to a contract or receipt, the salesperson is legally required to tell you about your cancellation rights and provide you with two copies of a cancellation form. Remember, the Federal Trade Commission’s Cooling-Off Rule allows you to cancel certain purchases made from home valued at $25 or more. To obtain a full refund you must do this before midnight of the third business day after the sale.
If you have been a victim of fraudulent door-to- door sales, you may report the scam to the Diamond Bar-Walnut Sheriff’s Station at (909) 595-2264 and the Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org. Complaints related to FTC’s Cooling-Off Rule or other consumer matters may be filed online www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov or by phone (877) FTC-HELP (382-4357).
