For the past several summers, there have been many reports of door-to-door salesmen offering upgrades and no install fee services. This has seen an increase not just in Houston, but across the country this year. This was mentioned in a previous post here, and apparently this summer is as bad as any.
The Texas Attorney General’s office is reporting a large upswing in this type of activity. Click through here for an article, and quote by Leah Napoliello, the senior director of investigative services at the Houston Better Business Bureau.
Often they are offering to install upgraded equipment, or free installation. They typically use high pressure tactics to get the homeowner to sign an agreement. They often present themselves as being with “Honeywell” or another manufacturer. Always ask to see an alarm salespersons credentials before letting them in you home or signing an agreement. They may even say they are with your alarm company that you currently use.
In Texas, alarm salespeople are required to carry a license from DPS, who regulates our industry. It should have their name, a photo, and “Texas Department of Public Safety” on the license. Here is another article from the Attorney General’s website. You should ask to see the reps license before discussing security or signing any agreement. Remember when doing business at your home in Texas, you always have three business days to cancel the agreement in writing, without any cause other that changing your mind. Keep in mind when searching for a home security system in the Houston area, there are several good local firms for your consideration. I urge you to try one of us!
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