Colportage concerns sales at home or in public places in Westland. Because consumers are often approached unexpectedly, the law provides extra protection with a cooling-off period of 14 days.
What does colportage entail?
Colportage is sales outside a shop or business premises, where the consumer has not initiated contact themselves. This includes:
- Door-to-door sales (such as household appliances, energy contracts or magazines)
- Sales on squares or markets
- Sales during an organised trip or event
- Unannounced visits following a telephone conversation
14-day cooling-off period
For colportage in Westland, you are entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period. You can cancel the purchase without reason. This period starts upon receipt of the goods or upon conclusion of the service agreement.
Mandatory information from the seller
A seller must inform you immediately about:
- Their name and contact details
- The characteristics of the offered product
- The total costs
- Your right of withdrawal
What is not permitted?
The following practices are prohibited in colportage:
- Coercive or pushy sales methods
- Refusing to leave upon request
- Intimidation or threats
- Targeted sales to vulnerable groups (such as the elderly or people with disabilities)
No colportage sticker
With a 'no colportage' sticker on your letterbox in Westland, you can indicate that you do not wish to receive salespeople. Companies are obliged to respect this.
Frequently asked questions about colportage
How do I make use of my 14-day cooling-off period?
Within 14 days after receipt of the product or conclusion of a service, you can cancel the agreement free of charge. Send a written cancellation (for example by e-mail) to the seller and return the product if necessary. Keep proof of dispatch. The seller must refund the paid amount within 14 days after your cancellation.
What if a seller refuses to leave my home?
A seller who refuses to leave acts contrary to the law. Politely but firmly ask them to leave. If they stay, contact the police (112 in case of danger, otherwise the general number). Note the seller's name and company for a report to the Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM).
Does the cooling-off period also apply to telephone offers?
Yes, if you did not initiate contact yourself, telephone sales fall under colportage. You then have a right to a 14-day cooling-off period. The seller must confirm this in writing. Request an e-mail with details about your right of withdrawal.
What if I was not informed about my right of withdrawal?
If the seller does not correctly inform you about your right of withdrawal, the cooling-off period is extended to 12 months after the standard period of 14 days. You can still dissolve the agreement. Keep proof that the information was missing, such as a contract without withdrawal conditions.
What to do if I suspect fraud by a colporteur?
File a police report and report this to the ACM via their website. Collect all relevant documents: agreements, payment proofs, names and possibly photos of the product. Contact the seller for a solution and consider legal assistance in Westland via the Juridisch Loket.
Is a 'no colportage' sticker legally enforceable?
Yes, a sticker is legally binding. Companies may not approach you for door-to-door sales. If it happens anyway, report it to the ACM. Note: the sticker does not apply to non-profit organisations or political campaigns, unless you specify otherwise.