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Door-to-door Security Salesmen Concern Springfield Residents

June 21, 2011|Cara Restelli | BBB Brief

Hopefully, you caught this morning's "BBB Brief" on KY3's Ozarks Today.  If not, we shared information with viewers about unscrupulous salesmen going door-to-door trying to sell home security systems.  They may use high pressure sales, claim the customer's current provider is going out of business or, in at least one case, use BBB's name to try and make the sale. 

Shortly after the story aired, we heard from a Springfield resident who said she recently bought a security unit from a door-to-door saleman from Vivint, Inc.  So far she has been happy with her system, but is now worried after finding out the company has a "D" rating with BBB, is currently the subject of a government investigation, and 1,421 consumers have filed comlaints against the company with BBB in the last 3 years - 749 are service related.  Here's a link to the company's BBB report. 

But the biggest red flag?  The viewer says the salesman claimed the security system was voted "best security system" 2 years in a row by Better Business Bureau.  While BBB does create reports with valuable information on company history, complaints, government actiions and more, or office does NOT rate companies or their products as "best of." 

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Unfortunately, every day businesses try to use BBB's good name to their advantage.  That's why it's crucial you check out a business with BBB before hiring them.  Go to our website and search their name for a comprehensive report, including their grade from A+ to F. 

As for door-to-door salesmen, don’t be fooled by high pressure sales.  It can be a red flag.  If you decide to buy from a door-to-door salesman, get everything in writing including price and warranty.  Read it carefully and make sure you understand it before signing.  Never pay the full amount until the work is complete.  And whenever possible, choose a BBB Accredited Business.  They must uphold certain standards giving you more peace of mind.  And remember, Missouri law provides that you have the right to cancel any contract within three business days if the seller personally solicited and presented the contract in your home.

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