Contract under pressure? This is how you avoid the cost trap!

Contract under pressure? This is how you avoid the cost trap!

In Brandenburg there are currently warnings about so-called door-to-door sales, which can often lead consumers into unpleasant cost traps. The Brandenburg consumer advice center points out that in many situations, be it in the parking lot, in the shopping center or at your own front door, contracts are concluded quickly and under time pressure. These circumstances could complicate the situation for consumers, which is why it is strongly recommended to carefully check offers before signing. Barnim Current reports that trained advertisers are often tempted to get potential customers to sign by offering small gifts.

Torsten Eick, legal advisor at the consumer advice center, emphasizes how important it is to have a cool head when concluding a contract. He recommends taking the documents home with you in order to examine offers at your leisure and take a closer look at the often hidden costs and conditions. Unfortunately, it often only becomes clear what the actual costs might look like after careful examination.

Right of withdrawal and consumer rights

Another important point that the consumer advice center addresses is the right of withdrawal. When concluding contracts outside of business premises, consumers usually have a 14-day right of withdrawal. This period begins with the complete preservation of the products. However, if sufficient information about the right of withdrawal has not been provided, the withdrawal period is extended to up to 12 months and 14 days. These rules also apply to contracts concluded during door-to-door sales, although the cancellation should always be made in writing to ensure proof. A simple return is not enough and it is not necessary to state the reason for the cancellation, as the consumer advice center does explained.

If consumers are unsure about whether and how they can withdraw from a contract, they should not hesitate to seek professional help. The consumer advice center offers advice on site as well as by telephone and video chat. Appointments can be made by calling 0331 / 98 22 999 5 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.). For more complex questions, it can be helpful to take advantage of a proper consultation, which is usually free. This is how it is explained that written out-of-court legal representation is also possible, which costs a flat rate of 40 euros.

It is worth checking the offers carefully and avoiding seemingly tempting attention, especially if a home visit is necessary. In this way you can avoid unwanted sales contracts and the associated difficulties.