Somerset Trading Standards officers have this week warned residents in the Burnham-On-Sea area to think twice before buying goods and services from ‘doorstep sellers’.
It comes after reports of goods, such as chainsaws and power tools, being sold door-to door have recently been received by Somerset County Council.
“There are concerns over the safety of these products and the lack of the sellers contact details,” explained a spokesman.
“The seller sometimes explains to the consumer that the goods are from bankrupt stock. Although these goods may seem to be reasonably priced, should there be a problem with them, consumers will have issues obtaining any redress.”
“Trading Standards advice for dealing with door-to-door sales people is to consider several points. Firstly, who are you buying from? – Always ask for an identity card and look up the organisation to check the salesperson’s identity is genuine.”
“Secondly, do they have paperwork? Think twice before you buy and if you are made to feel under pressure to make a purchase, have the confidence to say no. Trust your instinct, if it’s too good to be true – it probably is.”
“Thirdly, talk to someone you trust for a second opinion. If you spend more than £35 with a trader on the doorstep, you usually have seven days in which to cancel.”
Anyone who has further information or complaints about door step sellers in the area can contact the Citizens Advice consumer service on 08454 04 05 06. This is the first point of contact for any consumer complaints requiring investigation by trading standards officers.
