Cold Calling Update

There is a company calling door to door, presently in Dorking, but they may come north to Ashtead/Leatherhead. They are RJB Services Ltd and they offer a “free” raffle prize taking the householder’s name, address and phone number. The householder then receives a call to say they have won a free carpet shampoo session. When the representative calls round he cleans a small area of carpet and then tries to sell the householder an expensive Kirby vacuum cleaner and carpet shampoo machine costing £1,700!!!!

Further details of these selling practices are available on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kirby_Company and it seems the methods have not changed.

(Source: ARA)

*** UPDATE From Surrey Trading Standards ******

We are aware of this business and are advising people to be cautious about accepting entry into the free raffle as we understand that this is likely to be followed up by an extensive sales pitch and an attempt to sell expensive vacuum cleaners.

We are requesting anyone who is contacted in this manner to make us aware by calling Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

I hope this information is helpful.

Regards

Trading Standards Officer
Safer and Stronger Communities Team