BBB issues warning about door-to-door salesman

Someone rings a doorbell in this undated file photo.

Alberta consumers are being warned about a door-to-door-salesman who has been banned from doing business in B.C. and say he may be headed this way.

A Direct Sales Prohibition Order was issued against Lloyd Schell and his water filtration company Vin Water Systems by Consumer Protection B.C. last week.

The order prohibits Schell from engaging in direct sales within B.C. for 15 years.

He was also required to refund $4,076 to two consumers who were impacted as well as reimburse Consumer Protection BC for some of the investigative costs.

The Better Business Bureau for Southern Alberta and East Kootney says Schell was also caught operating without a direct selling licence in Alberta.

He was convicted in Vegreville provincial court under the Fair Trading Act and was fined $1,000 as well as ordered to pay $1,500 restitution.

The BBB is advising consumers not to engage in direct sellers contracts with Schell.

Sandra Crozier-McKee of the BBB says it is important for consumers to be aware of illegitimate business practices even if they are based outside of your area in case there are local chapters.

"Even though this business is based in B.C. it's important for Albertans to be cognisant of unethical business practices in general because this particular business has operated in our province as well," said Crozier-McKee, President and CEO of the BBB Serving Southern Alberta and East Kootenay. "If you are suspicious of sales tactics or of an organization, check with the BBB to ensure there are no warnings or other reasons for concern.

The BBB has these tips for consumers about door-to-door sales:

According to Consumer Protection BC, this is the second time the salesman has faced such an order.

A five-year Direct Sales Prohibition Order was issued in 2005 by Consumer Protection BC against Schell for using misleading sales tactics, using undue pressure against vulnerable seniors, grossly overcharging for products, using contracts that didn’t contain required information and failing to issue refunds after consumers cancelled their contracts.