Supplied by city police…
Know Your Rights – Aggressive Door to Door Sales
Over the past several weeks the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service has received a number of calls pertaining to persons using aggressive, high pressure door to door sales tactics in an attempt to gain entry to the home to further discuss the sale.
We have identified two separate companies that have sales persons going door to door that have received training in aggressive sales tactics.  One of the tactics is to persist until the homeowner says ‘no’ three times.
Door to door sales are not against the law.  There is a presumption that allows anyone to approach your door for a lawful purpose, however no person has the right to enter your home or remain on your property without your permission. To do so may be considered a violation under the Trespass to Property Act.  You are well within your rights to refuse them entry and to tell them to leave your property immediately; failure to comply could lead to being guilty of an offence and on conviction is liable to a fine of not more than $2,000.
High-pressure aggressive sales tactics should be a red flag, residents should always ask to see a business license and other identification, and remember you control who enters your home.  Don’t be pressured to take advantage of a time-sensitive offer.
Don’ts:
– You don’t have to share personal or financial information, it’s your choice
– Don’t let the salesperson into your home unless you’re satisfied it’s safe to do so
– You don’t have to show any existing contracts or bills, it’s your choice
– Don’t sign and agree to a contract until you have read it carefully and fully understand it
– Don’t sign a contract if it fails to explain that, under Ontario’s Consumer Protection Act, you can cancel a contract within 10 days of receiving a written copy of the agreement without incurring a penalty of any kind.
Please report any unwanted or suspicious activity immediately to the police.