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Under the Doorstep Regulations Act, reputable traders must provide
consumers with a written cancellation form which gives them seven
days to cancel an agreement, provided the goods purchased cost more
than £35.
However, consumers need to be aware
of their rights to cancel and ensure that they have obtained the
cancellation agreement from traders who call at the door.
Jane Day, senior adviser and
education officer from Peterborough City Council's business
regulation team, said: "We have been advised of an alarm company
that is contacting consumers to carry out a security check. If
people have agreed to this they must be given a cancellation form
giving them seven days to cancel, if they so wish. I would ask
anyone who thinks they have had dealings with this firm to check any
paperwork they receive.
"The prices charged for the system
and maintenance contract are usually far in excess of what is
considered reasonable, so I would also advise people to obtain
several quotes from reputable companies before making a purchase.
"Unfortunately, firms such as this
often prey on more vulnerable residents, such as the elderly or
those who live alone and have no-one to help them check through
paperwork.
"If anyone is concerned about their
home security they should contact their local police station in the
first instance, as they may have someone who can visit them and
offer advice."
Advice on consumer rights can be
obtained by contacting Consumer Direct on: 08454 04 05 06
or visiting the website at -
www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
March 2009 -
Peterborough UK Community Website
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