Recent reports of high-pressure door-to-door salespeople in Helena and other communities have prompted the Montana Office of Consumer Protection to remind consumers of their rights under Montana law and tips to safeguard themselves from buying something they don’t want or need.
The salespeople, representing Austin Diversified Products, Inc., are attempting to sell household cleaning products. The Harvey, Ill., based company has earned a C- rating from the Better Business Bureau.
The Office of Consumer Protection said Montanans should be wary of any company selling its products door-to-door, especially if the sales agents are using high-pressure or deceptive tactics. When homeowners are approached by door-to-door salespeople, they should:
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• Find out if the company is licensed with the state of Montana. To do business in Montana, companies are required to file paperwork with the Secretary of State.
• Be wary of letting salespeople into your home.
• Remember that few things are ever really “free.”
• Read the fine print.
Under Montana’s Right to Cancel law, the seller must give the buyer written notice of the right to cancel any purchase from a door-to-door salesman. A consumer has up to three days after the sale or after receiving the written notice – whichever is later -– to cancel any purchase that was sold by a door-to-door salesman. The buyer must notify the seller that the purchase has been cancelled and return any product that was purchased in its original condition.
Consumers with complaints or questions can contact the Office of Consumer Protection at 800-481-6896 or 406-444-4500.
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