The ACEF warns against an increase in door-to-door selling
There has been a lot of door-to-door selling (by phone, in person or in Facebook) in the area since last September. With the end of the Rénovert tax credit on March 31st, 2019, the Association coopérative d’économie familiale de l’Estrie (ACEF Estrie) is expecting an increase in door-to-door selling and even more pressure selling. The organisation invites everyone to vigilance.
The ACEF recommends never signing a contract on the same day. “Even if the Rénovert tax credit ends soon, you must take the time to ask for bids from contractors or sellers in the area in order to compare prices” insists Sylvie Bonin, the coordinator of the ACEF. She also suggests to figure in all the costs, including the financing costs and make sure they fit in your budget.
To get $2,500 in Rénovert subvention, you have to spend $15,000!
“Facebook ads and many telemarketers insist on a potential subvention of $2,500”, says Ms Bonin. It’s very attractive, but in order to get $2,500 in subvention, you must spend $15,000, plus interests. “At the end of the line, the total amount to be paid with a financing over 10 years will often surpass $20,000”, exclaims Ms Bonin.
Beware Facebook ads
An increasing number of Facebook ads make mention of a free attic inspection, a subvention or a contest. Once one registers, the business stages a visit. The inspector will often say that work is necessary and applies a lot of pressure to sign the contract right away. In the cases seen at the ACEF, the prices were very high. “The local contractors will probably be able to insulate an attic for a lot less!” says the coordinator of the ACEF.
What is the Rénovert Tax Credit?
– Reimbursement of 20% of an amount surpassing $2,500 on recognized works.
– The contract must be signed before March 31st and the work be carried out and paid for by January 1st, 2020.
For more information: https://www.revenuquebec.ca/en/citizens/tax-credits/renovert-tax-credit/
For information:
Sylvie Bonin, ACEF Coordinator
819-563-8144
cell: 819-574-5198
Last modified: 19 March 2019
