NEWS RELEASES
CITY OF SAULT STE MARIE
SAULT STE. MARIE POLICE SERVICE
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The City of Sault Ste. Marie is warning residents about aggressive door-to-door sales involving water services. This service is not in compliance with the City’s bylaw that requires a peddler’s licence.
Some residents have reported that individuals are seeking access to people’s homes in an effort to sell equipment.
Property owners who are approached by unsolicited contractors who become aggressive or confrontational should report the incident to City Police at 705-949-6300.
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The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service has recently received numerous calls for service regarding aggressive door to door sales persons. We would like to remind the public of their rights and provide some knowledge that may help citizens when they are dealing with these individuals.
Door to door sales are not against the law. There is a presumption that allows anyone to approach your door for a lawful purpose, however no person has the right to enter your home or remain on your property without your permission.
You are well within your rights to refuse them entry and to tell them to leave your property immediately at any time.
High-pressure aggressive sales tactics should be a red flag, residents should always ask to see a business license and other identification, and remember you control who enters your home or property. Don’t be pressured to take advantage of a time-sensitive offer.
Remember:
- You don’t have to share personal or financial information, it’s your choice
- Don’t let the salesperson into your home until you’re satisfied it’s safe to do so
- You don’t have to show any existing contracts or bills, it’s your choice
- Don’t sign and agree to a contract until you have read it carefully and fully understand it
- Don’t sign a contract if it fails to explain that, under Ontario’s Consumer Protection Act, you can cancel a contract within 10 days of receiving a written copy of the agreement without incurring a penalty of any kind.
Please report any unwanted or suspicious activity to the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service immediately.
If you have any information regarding these crimes, or any other crime, please call Crime Stoppers at 705-942-7867 or 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), submit an e-tip from the Crime Stoppers' website at www.saultcrimestoppers.com or text keyword SSM with your tip to 274637.
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