Isabelle from Gilly, near Charleroi, has been approached by canvassers claiming to work for energy suppliers or telephone operators. She is surprised as she believed door-to-door sales were prohibited. However, canvassing is permitted with certain conditions. Unfair or fraudulent practices are prohibited, as is misleading or incomplete information that could deceive consumers. As a consumer, you have a 14-day period to withdraw from any signed contract. Sellers cannot ring your doorbell at any time, and from January 2024, a royal decree will introduce a reflection period of three days before any contract can be signed, prohibiting sellers from concluding a contract on the spot. Some energy suppliers still use door-to-door sales, but be cautious of anyone without a badge to identify themselves. The police advise consumers to be wary of enticing offers and to ask for a trade card and authorization if in doubt. Always take the time to reflect, obtain an estimate, and never pay cash without proof of payment. If you have any doubts, contact the local police or the FPS Economy contact point.
Isabelle lives in Gilly, near Charleroi. She explains to us that for several days, canvassers have been ringing at her door. They say they work for energy suppliers or telephone operators. Isabelle is a little surprised. She thought that door-to-door sales were simply forbidden. Is that the case ? And what if they are insistent?
Canvassing is allowed, but under conditions.
Obviously, unfair or fraudulent practices are prohibited, as is misleading, incomplete information that misleads the consumer.
If you sign something, know that you have a 14-day withdrawal period to cancel the contract.
The person cannot ring your doorbell at any time, not in the wee hours of the morning, nor in the evening after 8 p.m.
With regard to door-to-door sales of energy contracts, from January 2024, a royal decree will come into force.
The text provides for a reflection period of three days before the signing, or not, of the contract. Prohibition therefore, to conclude a contract on the spot. And for three days, there was no question of the seller changing the offer.
Some suppliers actually use door-to-door sales. But, Isabelle explains to us that the canvassers do not wear a badge to identify them. So of course, she’s suspicious.
The police point out that in general, the more interesting the offer seems, the more you have to be wary.
Ask the person for his trade card, his authorization required.
If she starts asking you too many questions, if she wants to come into your house, that must give you a hint.
If you are nevertheless interested, ask for an estimate, an invoice, and the contact details of the service provider, his authorization of activity.
Don’t suddenly pay cash without proof of payment. And take the time to reflect. You have the right to withdraw.
If you have any doubts about the person’s honesty, dial 101. The local police can come and check the person.
You can also lodge a complaint with the FPS Economy contact point.
In conclusion, door-to-door sales are allowed under certain conditions, but it’s important to be cautious and aware of your rights as a consumer. Always ask for the salesperson’s trade card and authorization, and don’t hesitate to ask for estimates, invoices, and contact details before making a decision. Remember, you have a 14-day withdrawal period to cancel any contract. If you feel uncomfortable or suspicious, contact the local police or lodge a complaint with the FPS Economy contact point. Stay informed and stay safe.