RULES on door-to-door selling have been strengthened in a bid to protect vulnerable residents. The new laws, which were introduced earlier this month (October), by Cambridgeshire County Council Trading Standards, will provide greater protection against

RULES on door-to-door selling have been strengthened in a bid to protect vulnerable residents.

The new laws, which were introduced earlier this month (October), by Cambridgeshire County Council Trading Standards, will provide greater protection against high pressure doorstep salesmen.

The rules aim to protect all consumers who buy products and services from traders at home, regardless of whether the sales visit was unannounced or arranged.

Cllr Sir Peter Brown, Cambridgeshire County Council's Cabinet Member for the Economy, Environment and Climate Change, said: "Cambridgeshire County Council Trading Standards is at the forefront nationally of tackling rogue traders. This new law is a welcome addition to consumers' rights and our armoury when it comes to prosecuting people who deliberately use high pressure sales on some of the most vulnerable members of our communities."

Under the new laws, where goods or services cost over £35, consumers will have a seven day cooling-off period when they can cancel the contract. Sellers must provide buyers with written notice of their rights.

Previously the law only applied to people cold-calling residents, which meant vulnerable residents could be subject to high pressure sales tactics and sign contracts they can not afford.

But under the new rules, homeowners will now have protection if they invite a trader to their house.

Cathy Inman, Doorstep Project Manager for Cambridgeshire County Council Trading Standards, said: "As well as increasing consumer protection, these new regulations will make the law in this area clearer and more consistent. If traders do not comply any contract agreed with a customer will not be legally binding. More importantly, traders will be breaking the law and could face prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000."

INFORMATION: Any traders or residents seeking further advice should contact Cambridgeshire Trading Standards on 0845 0455206 or email trading.standards@cambridgeshire.gov.uk