Doorstep sales and cold calling
Your rights
Many people find high-pressure doorstep sellers intimidating. Remember, just because someone has come to your house it doesn't mean that you are obliged to buy. Even if you do choose to buy something from a doorstep seller, you still have rights as a consumer.
Report a problem
East Sussex Trading Standards operates a Rapid Action Team that can intervene if a doorstep salesperson has infringed these rights. To report a doorstep seller to our Rapid Action Team contact Trading Standards .
Doorstep selling regulations
You'll find useful advice including factsheets and FAQs on the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) website:
Protecting yourself from doorstep crime
Most people who call at your home will be genuine. But sometimes people turn up unannounced with the intention of tricking people either by high pressure selling or using false identification. Their aim is to get into people's homes and you always need to be aware when someone you don't know calls at your door.
Rogue doorstep sellers and bogus callers will often be smartly dressed. They will usually have a story to get your attention. They may claim to be from, or working with, the council, police or utility companies. They can be convincing and persuasive – that's their job and they're good at it!
Some may even use false identity cards or dress up for the part, for example, by wearing overalls with a false company logo. If you are in any doubt don't let them in.
Official visitors should always arrange an appointment beforehand. If you're not expecting them and you are alone then ask them to call back later when you have somebody with you – they will always be happy to do this.
If someone calls at your door and offers to do repairs to your home or asks to come in so they can talk to you, you should do the following:
- LOCK – keep front and back doors locked.
- STOP – are you expecting anybody? Do they have an appointment?
- CHAIN – put your door bar or chain – it's a useful barrier because they may try and pressurise you or even force their way in.
- CHECK – check their details carefully but do not let them in. If you are interested then arrange for them to come back later when you have somebody with you and can give some thought to it.
No cold calling zones
'No cold calling zones' can be set up where groups of residents wish to deter uninvited callers. Street signs, door stickers, information packs and ways of reporting incidents can all help to give residents the confidence to ‘say no'.
To find out more about the zones and how to set one up in your area, see our page No cold calling zones.
Information for businesses
For further information about cold calling zones, visit:
