New doorstep selling rules welcomed

New laws mean traders are now facing prosecution if they do not comply with new consumer protection legislation.

‘The Cancellation of Contracts Made in a Consumer's Home or Place of Work Regulations 2008’ cover most doorstep traders and relate to both unsolicited and solicited calls.

The new rules provide for a seven-day cooling off period that begins on the day that a customer receives a Notice of the Right to Cancel from a trader.

The new regulations apply where the goods or services cost £35 or more, and cover a range of companies including those trading in home improvements, repairs and maintenance (including the construction of extensions, conservatories, driveways, patios and the supply and/or fitting of double glazing). They also cover gardening services, personal items such as cosmetics, toiletries, jewellery and mobility products such as stairlifts, scooters and buggies and disability aids.

Only traders who cold-called had to previously give cancellation rights but now most sellers on the doorstep will have to comply or face prosecution said Andy Glover, Rochdale Council's Chief Trading Standards Officer.

"Although this legislation will not stop traders from calling at people's homes, it will cover those occasions where a consumer invites a trader to give an estimate as a result of them working, for example, in the area,” he said.

Councillor Ted Flynn added: “This means consumers have the safety net of a good cooling off period. It will also help to tackle underhand tactics used by rogues who take advantage of loopholes in the law and vulnerable consumers.”

The penalty for failing to comply with the new rules is a fine of up to £5,000.