FortisBC employees will always carry photo identification and only ever request to enter the home when an appointment has been made.
Image Credit: FACEBOOK / FortisBC
January 30, 2020 - 5:45 PM
Be it scammers or competing companies sending sales staff door-to-door, FortisBC reminds residents to stay safe and informed, and it has some important tips for protecting yourself.
“It’s important for the public to know that Fortis BC does not conduct door-to-door sales,” says Diana Sorace, the corporate communications advisor with FortisBC. “Also, FortisBC does not perform unscheduled inspections on home equipment, including meters, and does not visit homeowners to sell or repair any products. Our visits are by appointment and we always carry valid identification. We will only come inside if there is a gas disruption or emergency.”
For those who rent, they should always be aware of any upcoming appointments with FortisBC. Sorace says although the appointment will be set up with whoever is listed on the bill, it is the landlord’s responsibility to notify the tenant.
Sorace reminds residents to be cautious of anyone who shows up unannounced and claims to be from FortisBC or who offer appliance inspections. If you ask the person at your door to leave, they must do so right away, according to Sorace. She says if they do not leave, call the police.
Another thing Sorace notes is their competitors who will use aggressive techniques to make a sale. She says they may drop the FortisBC name to create a sense of security with the resident.
“From time to time, companies using high-pressure sales tactics will use FortisBC’s name in order to establish a point of trust with unsuspecting customers,” Sorace says. “These sales activities tend to pick up during spring and fall, which is right before the cooling and heating season.”
When in doubt, Sorace reminds residents to not share their personal information and to never show their FortisBC bill to anyone, as it contains personal and confidential information.
If you’re unsure of the legitimacy of the person standing at your door, ask for their photo identification and which company they represent. She reminds people to be wary of letting others into their homes, and in the event that you feel the need to sign something, be sure to read all of the fine print.
If you have received a suspicious sales call, contact FortisBC at 1-888-224-2710.
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