Auburn Police Warn of Aggressive Alarm System SalesAUBURN, Wash. - July 7, 2010 - The Auburn Police Department has received reports of agressive door-to-door home alarm system sales. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) confirms that they have received inquiries and complaints from Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington regarding this issue and typically see an increase in reports as the summer months approach.
The salesperson may misrepresent themselves as being from your current alarm company or a well-known brand; may claim to have a better or newer product and often target senior citizens. Sales tactics have been reported to be high pressure and try to commit the consumer into signing a new contract.
Your BBB offers these tips when choosing a burglar alarm system:
-
Beware of "free" offers. While the equipment and installation may be free, there will be a monthly monitoring fee. Make sure you compare all the costs.
-
Understand contracts. Make sure all of your agreements are in writing. Understand contract length, service details, installation and monthly prices. Find out if the company that will monitor your system is the same as the one installing the system. If not, also research the affiliated company.
-
Check out the business. Visit www.bbb.org for a free BBB Reliability Report. Check with business licensing to make sure the business is properly licensed in your state.
-
Understand the alarm system. Ask for details in writing on what steps to take if the alarm goes off.
-
Don't be pressured. A reputable company will let you check out the offer and compare bids from several installers.
-
Ask for proof. Most reputable sales representatives and installation technicians wear an identification badge with a name, photograph and unique identification number. Installation technicians also typically drive company-marked vehicles. If skeptical, contact the company to verify that the individual on-site is a valid employee.
-
Know the laws. The Federal Trade Commission’s Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule gives the customer three days to cancel purchases over $25 that are made in their home or at a location that is not the seller’s permanent place of business. Visit www.ftc.gov for more information.
Consumers who believe they were a victim of dishonest sales practices can file a complaint with BBB at www.bbb.org. You have the right to ask a person to leave your home or premises and if they continue with their sales efforts after you have asked them to leave, notify the police.
# # # |
