Door-to-Door Sellers

Here is information about door-to-door sellers from Seattle Police Department. It was handed out at the North Precinct Advisory Council meeting.

Residential (Door-to-Door) Sellers

The person at your door may not be who they claim to be

Seattle officials would like to advise homeowners to take precautions when dealing with door-to-door salespeople.  Although most of the people in this industry are legitimate sellers representing ethical businesses some are not. With these facts in mind the homeowner needs the following information before answering that knock at the door:

• Always look for proper identification.  In Seattle, all door-to-door sellers must display on their outer clothing a Residential Seller photo ID issued by the City and carry with them a Seattle Business License with a Residential Seller endorsement.  The residential sales agent’s license has the name of the agent and the business they represent.  It shall also be endorsed with the type of product or service being sold.  The license is only valid for the product or service specified and includes the licenses expiration date.

• It is advisable not to open your door to see the license. View the license through a peep hole in the door or a window.  If you cannot confirm the seller has a valid license you can call this office at 206-684-8484 and speak with a representative who can verify if the license is legitimate.  The license number on the ID badge is the same as the seller’s City account number.

• If you have any questions or concerns regarding Residential Sellers contact the Seattle Regulatory Control and Consumer Protection Division at 206-233-0050, Ronald Halas, Inspector, License and Tax Enforcement – Ronald.Halas@seattle.gov

• Each residential seller shall, immediately upon contacting the prospective buyer, disclose their name, company and the product or service represented.  If requested to do so they shall leave the premises immediately.

• These sales people may use intimidation, pressure tactics and threats to make a sale.  Never fall for high pressure sales tactics.  If a salesperson tries to pressure you into buying their product, terminate your conversation with them.  Take the time to compare offers and shop around.

• Never be afraid to say “No!”. Call 911 if you feel threatened or if you feel the person is acting suspicious.  You can also call the non-emergency number (206-625-5011).  If the sales person is under 18, the police can determine if the business has the proper certification for employment of minors.

• Home owners may consider putting up a “No agents, peddlers or solicitors” sign.  In Seattle, it is unlawful for any residential seller to attempt to gain admittance at any residence at which such a sign is posted.

• Use good judgment.  It is safer not to allow the salesperson into your home.  While the salesperson on your doorstep might be a kid in need of help, there is a risk that they are a criminal who has decided a traveling crew is a good place to hide.  They may try to gain access to your home by asking for something to drink or to use the bathroom or by just pushing past you.  They then use this opportunity to either commit a crime at that time or to check out your home for a future break-in.

• Beware of deals that offer “free gifts” which depend on you purchasing a product you may not want.

• Do not give the salesperson cash or a check.  It might be pocketed by the solicitor and you will never receive the product ordered.  Instead, find out from the seller how you can order directly from the company.  If the salesperson is concerned about losing their commission for the sale let them know you will give their name to the company representative who takes your order.

• Know your rights!  In Seattle, if you make a purchase, the salesperson must tell you of your right to cancel the order and the contract must include a statement regarding the right to cancel.  For every sale involving ten dollars or more the seller will provide a receipt or contract to the purchaser.  Do not leave any blanks on your contract.  Be sure the contract or receipt is dated and that it states the terms of the transaction, the amount of payment made and the name and address of the residential seller.  It must also include a notice informing the buyer of their right to cancel the order any time prior to midnight of the third business day after the date of the transaction.  For example – if you buy an item on July 12 you have until midnight July 15 to change your mind.

• The seller must also provide to the purchaser at the time they sign a contract, or buy or agree to buy goods or services from the seller, a completed Notice of Cancellation in duplicate.  You do not need to provide a reason for canceling your order.

What a Residential Sales License Should Look Like: