Alarm bells ringing over cold callers in South Ayrshire

Nov 14 2008

BE wary of cold callers trying to sell alarm systems.

That’s the message this week from trading standards who say they’ve received several complaints.

Hard-sell tactics are being used to convince people that they need expensive, sophisticated systems to protect their homes.

A spokesman explained: “The complaints received so far are from elderly consumers. The first had signed an agreement for an alarm system to be fitted which was free. However, the monitoring and maintenance of the system for five years would cost nearly £3500.”

The complainer was given the impression that once she signed for the deal she couldn’t cancel.

The spokesman added: “This is not the case as traders are legally obliged to give the consumer a copy of their cancellation rights in writing when they conclude a contract in their home.

“The law has recently been changed so that if consumers change their minds about a purchase above the value of £35 and signed for away from the business premises of the trader, then they have at least a seven calendar days cooling off period to cancel the contract.

“It does not matter whether the trader was invited into the home or not – the regulations cover both.”

Traders are obliged to advise customers of their right to cancel in writing, or face possible criminal proceedings.

The spokesman said: “We have since received other complaints and are currently investigating this company in relation to their selling techniques and cancellation rights and until that investigation is concluded we are asking South Ayrshire residents to be cautious and report anything similar to us.”

For information or advice call trading standards on 01292 616060.