Right of Withdrawal for Door-to-Door Sales in Den Haag
As a resident of Den Haag, the right of withdrawal for door-to-door sales gives you the option to cancel a doorstep purchase within 14 days without stating a reason. This protects residents of Den Haag from impulsive decisions during unexpected home sales visits, for example in neighborhoods like the Zeeheldenkwartier or Zuiderpark. Door-to-door sales, or canvassing, fall under off-premises contracts with a statutory cooling-off period to allow for thoughtful decisions.
What is door-to-door sales and when does the right apply in Den Haag?
Door-to-door sales means offering products or services at your home address in Den Haag by a seller not established at that location. Examples include door-to-door sellers of vacuum cleaners, energy deals or insulation in Den Haag neighborhoods. This article builds on our overview of door-to-door sales (sales at the door).
The right of withdrawal applies to off-premises contracts such as door-to-door sales. You have a 14-day cooling-off period starting from the purchase date or receipt of information, so you are not bound by a deal made under pressure.
Legal Basis of the Right of Withdrawal
The provisions are set out in Dutch Civil Code Book 6 (BW), Title 3, Division 5.3. Relevant articles:
- Art. 6:230m BW: defines off-premises contracts, including door-to-door sales at home.
- Art. 6:230o BW: establishes the 14-day cooling-off period.
- Art. 6:230h BW: requires the seller to provide information on withdrawal, often via a model form.
- Art. 6:230j BW: covers door-to-door specifics, such as confirmation within 7 days.
These rules implement EU Directive 2011/83/EU. Since 2014, doorstep sales have the same 14-day period as online shops.
How to Exercise the Right of Withdrawal in Practice?
Step-by-step overview:
- Enter into the agreement: Seller provides a copy of the purchase agreement and withdrawal information.
- Cooling-off period: 14 days from receipt of information or products.
- Withdraw: Send an unequivocal statement (post, email, model form). For example: "I cancel the purchase of [product] on [date]."
- Refund: Seller reimburses everything within 14 days, including shipping costs.
- Return goods: At the seller's expense, unless otherwise agreed.
Example 1 from Den Haag: Ms. Jansen from the Regentessekwartier buys a €500 water filter at the door. After three days, she withdraws using the model form sent by registered mail. The seller processes the exchange and refunds immediately.
Example 2 from Den Haag: Mr. De Vries in Schilderswijk signs an energy contract. He withdraws within 10 days. Despite the seller's objections, he cites Art. 6:230o BW and receives a full refund.
Rights and Obligations upon Withdrawal
| Your rights | Seller's obligations | Your obligations |
|---|---|---|
| 14-day cooling-off without reason | Provide information on the right | Return products undamaged |
| Full refund within 14 days | Cover return shipping costs | Send withdrawal notice on time |
| No extra costs if unused | Supply model form | Retain proof of dispatch |
Try products as you would in a store, but avoid damage. No information provided? The cooling-off period extends to 12 months!
Exceptions for Den Haag Residents
Not every doorstep purchase qualifies:
- Purchases under €50 (unless specified).
- Custom-made items (such as Den Haag curtains).
- Hygiene products with broken seal (e.g., lingerie).
- Transport or hospitality contracts.
Review the purchase agreement carefully.
FAQ on Door-to-Door Sales in Den Haag
Do I need to give a reason when withdrawing?
No, a brief statement suffices, such as on the model form.
No model form received?
Cooling-off starts upon receipt of information, up to 12 months + 14 days. Request it.
Can I withdraw after delivery?
Yes, within 14 days. Return shipping at seller's expense.
What about telephone door-to-door sales?
Also applies to off-premises telephone offers.
Tips for Residents of Den Haag
- Always read the purchase agreement thoroughly and request the cooling-off period.
- Send withdrawal by registered mail for proof.
- Keep all documents.
- Problems? Report to ACM, Juridisch Loket Den Haag or Den Haag District Court. The Municipality of Den Haag also offers information on their website.
- See also: Consumer Purchase and Cooling-Off Period.
Unsure? Call Juridisch Loket Den Haag for free advice or contact Arslan Advocaten. We assist residents of Den Haag with their rights.
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