Colportage concerns sales at home or in public places in Utrecht. Because consumers are often approached unexpectedly, they enjoy extra protection, including a cooling-off period of 14 days.
What does colportage entail?
Colportage is sales that take place outside the seller's shop or business premises, without the consumer having requested it themselves. Examples in Utrecht are:
- Door-to-door sales (such as for energy contracts or household appliances)
- Promotion and sales on the street
- Offers during an organized trip or event
- Unannounced visits following a telephone conversation
14-day cooling-off period
For colportage in Utrecht, you are entitled to a cooling-off period of 14 days. Within this period, you can withdraw from the purchase without giving a reason. This period starts upon receipt of the product or upon entering into a service agreement.
Mandatory information from the seller
Sellers in Utrecht are obliged to provide the following information immediately:
- Name and contact details of the company
- Essential details of the offered product or service
- Full costs, including any additional costs
- Information about the right of withdrawal
Prohibited practices
The following practices in colportage are not permitted in Utrecht:
- Exerting pressure or aggressive selling
- Refusing to leave upon request
- Intimidation or threats
- Targeted sales to vulnerable groups such as the elderly or people with disabilities
No colportage sticker in Utrecht
With a 'no colportage' sticker on your letterbox in Utrecht, you indicate that you do not wish to receive sellers at the door. Companies must respect this, otherwise you can file a complaint.
Frequently asked questions about colportage in Utrecht
How do I make use of the 14-day cooling-off period?
Within 14 days after receipt of the product or conclusion of the agreement, you can cancel the purchase without giving a reason. Send a written notice (for example via 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 do I do if a seller refuses to leave my house?
If a seller in Utrecht refuses to leave, he is breaking the law. Politely but firmly ask them to leave. If they persist, you can call the police (112 in case of threat, otherwise the general number). Note the seller's name and company for a complaint with the Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM).
Does the cooling-off period apply to telephone offers?
Yes, if you did not initiate contact yourself, telephone sales fall under colportage. You then have a 14-day cooling-off period. The seller must confirm this right in writing. Request an e-mail confirmation and check if the withdrawal conditions are clear.
What if the seller does not inform me about my right of withdrawal?
If the seller in Utrecht 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 a withdrawal clause.
What to do if I suspect fraud by a colporteur?
Immediately file a report with the police in Utrecht and report it to the ACM via their website. Collect all relevant evidence such as contracts, receipts, names and photos. Contact the seller for a solution and consider legal assistance if this does not help.