The Better Business Bureau of Kansas is warning consumers to be wary of door-to-door salesmen offering home security systems “at no cost.”
Haysville resident Marie knows how it works. She called the BBB after she got a knock on the door Monday night.
“It was for a life alert, police alert…you know if someone broke in,” says Marie.
The company she talked to is called Vivint. The Utah based company recently changed names. It’s formerly APX. FactFinder 12 has told you about APX in past years for operating without a license and for high pressure sales tactics.
"He said burglaries were higher than they used to be,” says Marie describing how the man tried selling her the system.
The BBB wants consumers to be aware of these tactics.
“Don't let scare tactics pressure you into signing that contract,” says BBB spokesperson Robbie Namee.
The Better Business Bureau says there are good companies, but you need to know what to ask.
“For example they say we're going to give you the system for free and put a sign in your yard, but there are still monthly fees,” says Namee.
Marie and her neighbors were also told the system was free.
FactFinder 12 reached the salesperson by phone. He denied telling consumers that crime is up in their area. He says the team “met its quota” in Haysville and has moved on to Wichita.
He hung up on us when we tried asking more questions.
“You just get a gut feeling something isn't quite right,” says Marie.
We tried contacting a company spokesperson, but didn't receive a response.
And FactFinder 12 is still checking to see where the company is licensed to sell and install security systems.
The Haysville Police Department tells us it has an open investigation with the company for disorderly conduct after a citizen complained about how they were being treated by the salesman.
Better Business Bureau tips:
- Some companies will offer a “free” alarm system. Ask if it is the same company you are signing a contract with. If not, make sure you obtain the name, address and phone number of this company.
- Find out about the local building codes and regulations regarding burglar alarms, including costs for false alarms.
- Check out the company that will be monitoring your system. Ask if it si the same company you are signing a contract with.
- Consider advantages and disadvantages of each system and decide which will be best for your particular situation.
- Deal only with reputable firms and check out the company at the Better Business Bureau.
- Don’t be pressured into buying something you don’t want or need. A reputable company will let you check out the offer and compare bids from several installers.
- Make sure it includes all promises made by the sales person. If the promises are not in the contract do not sign the contract.
