What you need to know about doorstep selling FAQs
Deposit refund
I signed a contract for double glazing but decided to cancel it within the cooling-off period. Now the company says I can't get my deposit back. Are they right?
No, if you cancel a contract (within the legally allowed cooling-off period) you are entitled to a refund of any money that you have already paid.
You'll have to return any items you've already received, or pay for any work that has already been done.
Verbal contract
Does a contract have to be in writing?
No. Verbal contracts have the same legal standing as written contracts and are governed by the same laws. But they can be far more difficult to prove. The only contracts that must be in writing are those for the sale or lease of land, and hire purchase or credit agreements.
If you have made a verbal contract with a company, make sure that you keep copies of all letters in case you need to prove anything later.
Increased price
A builder knocked on my door and said he could pave my driveway for £1,000. I agreed, but now it’s finished he says I owe him £1,500 because it took longer than expected. Do I have to pay him?
It’s always best to get quotations in writing if you can. If you agreed a fixed price with the builder, whether in writing or verbally, you should have to pay only that amount. If you didn't agree a fixed price, or you get only an estimate, the Sale of Goods Act says that tradesman may only charge a ‘reasonable’ price.
What is ‘reasonable’ depends on the type of work, the amount of work done and the standard of work. If you think the builder’s charge is unfair, get quotes from other traders for the same work, and pay what you consider to be fair and in line with what the 'going rate' is.
Stopping cold callers
Is there anything I can do to stop cold calling, and doorstep salespeople visiting my home?
You can sign up with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to stop salespeople calling your home. It is unlawful for a business to make unsolicited phone calls to people who've registered with the TPS. You can register by calling 0845 070 0707 or visiting the TPS website.
If you can get the backing of your local community it’s also possible for you and your neighbours to make your area a 'No Cold Calling Zone'. The Trading Standards Institute and the police have set up the initiative to reduce doorstep crime and protect vulnerable consumers. You and your neighbours will have to pay a small amount for street signs and door stickers.
