With the warm weather and sunny days ahead of us, many Albertans are being inundated with salespeople going door to door and the Better Business Bureau says they’ve already been getting complaints.

Sandra Crozier-McKee, president and CEO of the BBB serving Southern Alberta and East Kootenay, says it can be a challenge to tell the bad from the good when it comes to salespeople. "There are some legitimate solicitors out there who use unethical sales tactics," she says in a release. "That's why it's important for people to know what to look for before signing on the dotted line and opening their wallet."

The BBB is sharing the following tips to help consumers pick the right salespeople:

  • Ask for credentials – always be sure to ask to look at the salesperson’s credentials or licence and follow up with the BBB in case the company in question says they don’t need a licence.
  • Be careful of pushy sales tactics – trustworthy companies should allow you time to think about the purchase before putting down a deposit.
  • Don’t feel pressured – don’t be swayed by time-sensitive offers. Instead, take the time to make sure the product is right for you.
  • Get it in writing – be sure to secure a written contract or receipt that clearly details the purchase and the terms and conditions associated with it.
  • Purchases can be cancelled – under certain conditions, consumers have 10 days to cancel purchases under the Fair Trading Act. Salespeople should always provide a cancellation form with purchases.
  • Stand your ground – remember that you are never obligated to invite salespeople into your home.
  • Check with the BBB before putting any money down – the BBB website, bbb.org, has resources to check up on a company, including their marketplace performance and other vital information.

Victims of fraudulent door-to-door sales should report the incident to their local law enforcement, contact BBB at 403-531-8784 as well as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.