Released on June 11, 2015
The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) notices a rise in the number of complaints related to the sales of home alarm systems during the summer months. Consumer complaints in this area tend to fall into two categories; high-pressure sales tactics by door-to-door sellers and failure to read and understand the fine print.
The first thing consumers can do to protect themselves is verify the licence of the sales representative who has contacted them at home or by phone, by going to www.fcaa.gov.sk.ca/fcaa411/. Bad behaviour can be reported to the Consumer Protection Division of FCAA.
Second, asking the right questions about details in the fine print can save consumers a lot of grief.
Some of these questions include:
- What is the total cost?
- What is the cancellation process?
- What is required if I move or change addresses?
- Will service be interrupted if I switch telecomm providers?
Know your rights
A consumer has the right to cancel a direct-sales (door-to-door) contract within a 10-day period after receiving the finalized contract. Consumers can also learn more about home alarm direct sales at www.fcaa.gov.sk.ca/homealarms2015
Contact Consumer Protection Division
If consumers have questions about home alarm sales and contracts they can contact us toll free at 1-877-880-5550 or by email at consumerprotection@gov.sk.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Matthew Barton
FCAA
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6067
Email: matthew.barton@gov.sk.ca