Doorstep Selling Regulations

The Cancellation of Contracts Made in a Consumer's Home or Place of Work etc Regulations (2008) offer buyers increased protection when purchasing goods or services from a seller in the home (or in someone else's home), at the buyer's place of work, or on an excursion.

A buyer is entitled to cancel the contract for such a purchase above the value of £35 within seven calendar days (the 'cooling-off' period). The Regulations cover both solicited (invited) and unsolicited (uninvited) visits.

The seller must advise the buyer in writing of their right to cancel a contract - this information must usually be set out in the contract and should be legible and have equal prominence to any other part of the agreement. To cancel the contract the buyer must do so in writing and either post, deliver in person or e-mail the seller. A cancellation form should be provided by the seller although the buyer does not have to use it.

The Regulations do not apply to all contracts. Further information can be found at the Department for Business Enterprise & Regulatory Reform website here: http://www.berr.gov.uk/whatwedo/consumers/buying-selling/Doorstep-selling/index.html.

Related Clickdocs documents

• Standard Terms and Conditions - general T & Cs of sale and purchase