Warning about burglar alarm scam in Suffolk
Tuesday, 8th February 2011.
Following a flurry of complaints, Suffolk Trading Standards are warning residents to be vigilant when opening their doors to companies offering burglar alarms for as little as a pound.
A salesperson may cold call by telephone and insist on visiting the same day to discuss the installation of a free or cheap alarm. Companies may also use high-pressure tactics to scaremonger residents.
Based on previous complaints, Trading Standards found that the companies failed to mention hidden fees for the monitoring, upkeep and rapid response facilities. Some residents have found themselves tied into a long contract agreement costing thousands of pounds.
James Garrett, Suffolk fair trading officer said: "We are urging residents, especially elderly or vulnerable people, to be aware of such calls.
"Our advice is not to buy anything based on a cold call. If you intend to make a major purchase always research the market and get at least three quotes from reputable companies."
If residents do not wish to receive unsolicited sales and marketing telephone calls, they can register for free via the Telephone Preference Service on 0845 070 0707 or www.tpsonline.org.uk.
Anybody with any concerns should phone Consumer Direct for advice on 08454 04 05 06.
A salesperson may cold call by telephone and insist on visiting the same day to discuss the installation of a free or cheap alarm. Companies may also use high-pressure tactics to scaremonger residents.
Based on previous complaints, Trading Standards found that the companies failed to mention hidden fees for the monitoring, upkeep and rapid response facilities. Some residents have found themselves tied into a long contract agreement costing thousands of pounds.
James Garrett, Suffolk fair trading officer said: "We are urging residents, especially elderly or vulnerable people, to be aware of such calls.
"Our advice is not to buy anything based on a cold call. If you intend to make a major purchase always research the market and get at least three quotes from reputable companies."
If residents do not wish to receive unsolicited sales and marketing telephone calls, they can register for free via the Telephone Preference Service on 0845 070 0707 or www.tpsonline.org.uk.
Anybody with any concerns should phone Consumer Direct for advice on 08454 04 05 06.
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