Waterloo Regional Police warn residents of door-to-door salespeople now trying to solicit via phones

The Waterloo Regional Police are warning residents of unsolicited door-to-door and phone salespeople.

A press release from the police said some companies are by-passing legislation that was enacted in 2018 that bans unsolicited sales practices.

“Some companies are using phone solicitation, offering free services or products to entice victims to set up in-home appointments,” the notice read. It added that once the salesperson is in the home, customers are “encouraged” to purchase products and sign contracts.

“In some cases, homeowners sign contracts that are then sold to third party lenders. These companies then assume the contract and collect monthly payments from the customer. To ensure interest on the product that was installed in the home, the company places a lien on the homeowner’s property. In many cases, the lien isn’t discovered until the home is sold, often costing the homeowner tens of thousands of dollars.”

Ontario passed and enacted Bill 193 on March 1st 2018, which bans the practice of door-to-door soliciting. The legislation was put in place to protect residents from signing onto unclear contracts.

The Waterloo Regional Police is reminding people to be “vigilant.” Recommendations include not allowing salespersons into homes, to not be “confused by unsolicited phone calls offering free services,” and to contact the police if a door-to-door salesperson is in your home and you feel uncomfortable.

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Source: Waterloo Regional Police