Spring has finally sprung and it’s getting nice and comfortable to walk around the neighborhood. Unfortunately, this warmer weather sometimes brings not just flowers but also some unwelcome visitors in the form of door-to-door scams.

The point of these door-to-door scams is usually to encourage you to purchase products or services that you don’t need. Or worse, they may just be trying to distract your attention so that their conspirators can sneak into your house to steal from you. Often, they can also be pretending to be legitimate companies just to get you to trust them.

This isn’t to say every person out there is untrustworthy, but it’s getting harder and harder to tell the good apples from the bad. The name of the game in protecting yourself is vigilance, research, and having the self-control to walk away from a deal that seems “too good to be true.”

Here are some tips from Better Business Bureau Northwest + Pacific to help protect you and your home.

Use Caution. Don’t ever invite a door-to-door salesperson into your home, especially if you’re home alone. Once you allow them to enter your house, you are in a compromising situation which may be unsafe or lead to a pressured purchase.

Research. Ask for identification such as a permit, business license or business card. Research the company through BBB.org to view what their complaint history is and their BBB rating.

Resist Pressure. Do they need an answer now? Avoid sellers who encourage you to sign a contract or put down a deposit right away. Reputable companies will always encourage consumers to be well-informed and to do their research.

Know your Rights. Under Federal Trade Commission’s “Cooling Off Rule,” you have the right to cancel a door-to-door purchase of $25 or more within three business days and receive a full refund.

Obtain everything in writing. If you decide to do business with a door-to-door salesperson, make sure you get everything in writing including a receipt, warranty and contract (if applicable), and cancellation information.

Pay using a credit card. Payment by credit card is the safest method because certain consumer protections are provided. Make sure you obtain a receipt that documents any payments that are made and keep it for your records.

Most importantly, stay safe. If you feel in danger or see suspicious activity in your area, call local authorities. If a salesperson or contractor gets irate, difficult, or if you feel unsafe in any way, close the door and call 9-1-1 immediately.

If you need info on or have been a victim of a scam, you can use our free ScamTracker service to file a report at bbb.org/scamtracker or call our office at (208) 342-4649. We are always happy to help!

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Email Jason: [email protected]