Door to Door Sellers

Many of you will be aware of persons going door-to-door trying to sell goods, informing the occupant they are just out of prison or on probation and trying to turn their lives around.  This is usually a scam, the goods are of an inferior quality and they may try to talk their way into your home.  They can be intimidating toward the elderly and vulnerable when things don’t go their way and often revert to abuse or threats.  In short, these are not genuine street traders; they work in groups and carry out their illegal activity in one area at a time.  To sell door to door, it is a legal requirement to hold a pedlar’s licence.  There are strict rules around obtaining a licence and they can only be obtained by applying to the Police.

The Chief  Police Officer  will grant the certificate on being satisfied that the applicant:

•           Is over 17 years of age;

•           Is a person of good character;

•           Intends in good faith to carry on the trade of a pedlar.

So, if they do not hold a certificate that has been duly authorised by the Police, it looks fake, belongs to another person, or is simply out of date - do not buy from them.  They will often state they do not need a certificate or 'hawker’s' licence to show you items for you to order.  This is a ruse; a certificate is required whatever they claim. 

Remember:

·       politely refuse to buy from them and close the door;

·       do not become involved in any verbal altercation with them;

·       do not let them into your address for any reason;

·       never give out any personal information.

Call the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) if you are subjected to verbal abuse or intimidation, or simply to let your Safer Neighbourhood Team know they are in the area.