Your Better Business Bureau has received inquiries and complaints from Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington concerning a business going door-to-door selling home alarm systems.
APX Alarm Security Solutions, Inc, headquartered in Utah, has a "D-" rating with BBB for having 1,541 complaints in the last 36 months and multiple government actions.
Your BBB offers these tips when choosing a burglar alarm system:
- Beware of "free" offers. While the equipment and installation may be free, there will be a monthly monitoring fee. Make sure you compare all the costs.
- Understand contracts. Make sure all of your agreements are in writing. Understand contract length, service details, installation and monthly prices. Find out if the company that will monitor your system is the same as the one installing the system. If not, also research the affiliated company.
- Check out the business. Visit www.bbb.org for a free BBB Reliability Report. Check with business licensing to make sure the business is properly licensed in your state.
- Understand the alarm system. Ask for details in writing on what steps to take if the alarm goes off.
- Don't be pressured. A reputable company will let you check out the offer and compare bids from several installers.
- Ask for proof. Most reputable sales representatives and installation technicians wear an identification badge with a name, photograph and unique identification number. Installation technicians also typically drive company-marked vehicles. If skeptical, contact the company to verify that the individual on-site is a valid employee.
- Know the laws. The Federal Trade Commission’s Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule gives the customer three days to cancel purchases over $25 that are made in their home or at a location that is not the seller’s permanent place of business. Visit www.ftc.gov for more information.
Consumers who believe they were a victim of dishonest sales practices can file a complaint with BBB at www.bbb.org.
About your BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington:
Your Better Business Bureau is a not-for-profit organization funded by Better Business Bureau Accredited Businesses. The BBB’s mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. For more information about the services and products provided by your BBB, call 206-431-2222 or 253-830-2924 in Washington, 503-212-3022 in Oregon, 907-562-0704 in Alaska, or visit our Web site at www.bbb.org.