The Better Business Bureau of Saskatchewan is warning consumers to beware of high-pressure home energy salespersons going door-to-door selling heating/cooling units. Over the past two weeks, True North Home Solutions has been reported in several communities.
Complaints and inquiries have focused on allegations of high pressure sales tactics that include they are ‘part of’ or ‘associated with’ either SaskPower or SaskEnergy. This is not a BBB Accredited business.
The Direct Sellers Act requires the business and the salesperson to have a direct sellers license unless they are exempted by legislation. In addition, they will likely require a municipal license, too. There are no licensing exemptions for direct salespersons who sell home renovation products or services, and all direct sellers of home renovation products must be licensed.
Every year the BBB receives a number of inquiries and complaints from consumers and municipalities who have been contacted regarding the sale of home heating/cooling services. The majority of the inquiries this year for this product/service concerns three separate companies that are not accredited businesses, with a head office in Ontario. Direct sellers going door-to-door must be licensed under Consumer Protection in Saskatchewan.
Ask for a copy of their Direct Sellers License. Ask for the address of the registered office in Saskatchewan for the business. Most urban municipalities, including the City of Weyburn, require seasonal businesses engaged in door-to-door sales to be licensed in the municipality. Ask for a copy of that municipal business license. If they are from out of province, ask for the contact person for the Saskatchewan office.
Under the Direct Sellers Act, consumers may cancel any contract executed at home, provided such cancellation is provided in writing to the Saskatchewan office of the business within 10 calendar days of its execution.
Reputable businesses won’t require signatures at the door. Take the time to read the documentation at your leisure. If the sales pitch has a limited time offer, ask the sales person to leave immediately and close your door.
Ask for references who have had the service in the past in Saskatchewan, then contact the references and discuss their level of satisfaction with the service.
The Better Business Bureau reminds all consumers and businesses to use caution and carefully review all invoices for products and services before paying. If a consumer or business has any questions regarding these calls, please contact the Better Business Bureau of Saskatchewan.
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