Colportage, also known as door-to-door sales or street sales, often catches consumers off guard. In Leiden, specific protection rules therefore apply, including a 14-day cooling-off period to cancel the purchase without reason.
What is colportage?
Colportage involves sales outside a shop or business premises, where the consumer has not initiated contact themselves. This includes:
- Door-to-door sales (e.g., energy contracts, household appliances)
- Sales in public places
- Sales during organized outings
- Unexpected home visits following a phone call
14-day cooling-off period
With colportage, you are entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period. Within this period, you can cancel the agreement free of charge. The period starts upon receipt of the product or upon conclusion of the agreement (for services).
Obligations of the seller
A seller must immediately inform you of:
- Their name and contact details
- The characteristics of the offered product
- The total costs
- Your right of withdrawal
Prohibited practices
Certain practices are not permitted in colportage, such as:
- Exerting pressure or aggressive behaviour
- Refusing to leave upon request
- Intimidating language or behaviour
- Targeted sales to vulnerable groups (such as the elderly)
No colportage sticker in Leiden
With a 'no colportage' sticker on your letterbox in Leiden, you can indicate that you do not wish to receive door-to-door sellers. Companies must respect this.
Frequently asked questions about colportage
How do I make use of the 14-day cooling-off period?
Within 14 days after receipt of the product or conclusion of a service agreement, you can cancel the purchase without giving a reason. Send a written notice (e.g., by email) to the seller and return any goods if applicable. Keep proof of dispatch. The seller must refund the money within 14 days after your cancellation.
What to do if a seller refuses to leave?
If a seller refuses to leave your home, they are breaking the law. Politely but firmly ask them to leave. If they remain, contact the police (112 in case of danger, otherwise the general number). Note the seller's and company's details for a complaint to the Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM).
Does the cooling-off period apply to telephone sales?
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. Request written confirmation of your right of withdrawal and check that it is clearly stated.
What if I was not informed of my right of withdrawal?
If the seller does not correctly inform you of your right of withdrawal, the cooling-off period is extended to a maximum of 12 months after the standard 14-day period. You can still terminate the agreement. Keep proof that the information was missing.
What to do if I suspect fraud by a colporteur?
File a police report and report it to the ACM via their website. Gather evidence such as contracts, receipts, names, and photos of the product. Contact the seller for a resolution and consider legal advice.
Is a 'no colportage' sticker legally valid in Leiden?
Yes, such a sticker is legally binding. Companies may then not approach you for door-to-door sales. In case of violation, you can file a complaint with the ACM. Note: this does not apply to charities or political organizations, unless explicitly stated.
Relevant authorities in Leiden: For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden (Stationsweg 46). Disputes can be submitted to the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location.