posted on Thursday, May 21, 2009 2:52 PM
by
klehan
Minneapolis, PD, Warns of Pushy Alarm Salespeople
The city of Minneapolis is warning residents of high-pressure door-to-door home alarm sales efforts, which can seem like a good deal, but can end up costing homeowners thousands in the long-run.
The city wants homeowners to know there are often hidden installation fees associated with new alarm systems, and all companies charge monthly monitoring fees which can range from $30 to $50 or more.
Alarm users are required to pay for false alarms in Minneapolis. On the first false alarm call, residents are charged a registration fee of $30. The second alarm in a year costs $100, and the charge goes up $100 for each false alarm after that.
The reason for the false alarm charges is the cost to taxpayers for the use of police and other emergency crews. Poor-quality alarm systems could trigger false alarms, adding up costs for the homeowner.
If a home alarm salesperson comes to your house, the city advises homeowners to take the following steps:
Make sure the business is licensed: All door-to-door salespeople operating in Minneapolis need to carry a solicitors license: a picture I.D. card that customers can ask to see. If they do not provide one, its a sign that the business may not be licensed. To find out whether a salesperson or company is licensed, please call (612)673-2562
Document your conversation: Take good notes on the offers. Get the salespersons name, the company name and phone number. Also, get a written statement - not an estimate - that lists all costs, including installation and monthly or annual monitoring fees.
Ask about the company's policy: If the false alarm is due to faulty equipment, will you be reimbursed? Will service calls for the alarm be charged to you? Any contract should have this in writing.
Do not sign up right away or feel pressured to do so: Many sales pitches try to prompt you to act on the spot with one-time offers or other special deals. Remember, there are many alarm companies to choose from.