SAINT JOHN – This spring, the Financial and Consumer Services Commission of New Brunswick (the Commission) is reminding New Brunswickers to take a pause when a door-to-door salesperson offers them a deal in their doorway.
Door-to-door offers for driveway paving, roofing repairs, solar panel installations, attic inspections or other work around the home are common this time of year. While most sellers are legitimate, others may be operating without a required licence.
In New Brunswick, door-to-door sellers (also called direct sellers) must be licensed and bonded with the Commission. They must carry their licence with them and be associated with a licensed company. Licensing provides a level of protection for consumers because the Commission will only licence those who meet the requirements under the Direct Sellers Act.
“We’re asking New Brunswickers, ‘Would you know what to do if a scam came knocking?’” said Marissa Sollows, the Commission’s Director of Communications and Public Affairs. “We want New Brunswickers to have the confidence to pause and consider the deal they are being offered. They should ask to see the salesperson’s licence, take time to read the contract, and ask friends and family for their opinions if they need help or feel pressured to make a decision.”
The Commission has seen a noticeable rise in the past few years in complaints about unlicensed door-to-door sellers. It is not unusual for scammers to try high-pressure tactics or misleading claims to get consumers to sign contracts or make quick payments.
To raise awareness of this issue, the Commission is launching a multi-media campaign this spring with tips for how New Brunswickers can protect their money and their home when dealing with door-to-door sellers.
Before agreeing to purchase anything from a door-to-door seller, it is important to:
- Ask to see the seller’s licence and check that it is not expired, it is signed by the Commission and the salesperson, and that the name matches the company they say they represent.
- Verify whether a salesperson and the company they represent is licensed by checking the Commission’s online database at www.fcnb.ca/check-now.
- Confirm the contact information for the business and seller, ask questions about the product or service, its total cost and what happens if you change your mind.
- Consult friends, family and community members for independent reviews or check with the Better Business Bureau.
- Be cautious with payments. Avoid paying up front in full and never feel pressured to pay in cash, either as a downpayment or for the whole charge.
“And don’t forget, as a consumer, you have the right to a 10-day “cooling-off” period that allows you to cancel a direct sales contract,” Sollows pointed out.
New Brunswickers who experience high-pressure sales tactics or suspect deceptive practices should report the incident to the Commission at fcnb.ca. For suspicious or unusual behaviour, contact the local police.
To learn more about direct selling in New Brunswick, including how to check whether a direct seller is licensed and what to do if you have concerns, visit www.fcnb.ca.
Audio files of Marissa Sollows, Director of Communications and Public Affairs
Media Contact:
1 866 933-2222 or media@fcnb.ca.
The Financial and Consumer Services Commission of New Brunswick has the mandate to provide regulatory services that protect the public interest while enhancing public confidence, and to promote understanding of the regulated sectors through educational programs. It is responsible for the administration and enforcement of financial and consumers services legislation for mortgage brokers, payday lenders, real estate, securities, insurance, pensions, credit unions, trust and loan companies, cooperatives, the unclaimed property program, and a wide range of other consumer legislation. It is a Crown corporation funded by the regulatory fees and assessments paid by the regulated sectors. Online educational tools and resources are available at www.fcnb.ca.