Didn’t You Read the Sign?
Door-to-door salespeople are…irritating. You can put up all the signs you want, but a lot of them happily ignore your boundaries to sell you a new internet package…or solar panels, or cleaning products—well, you get the picture. It’s not always easy to stand your ground, but we have a few ways you can keep them off your property! 
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1. Home Services
“Home services” sounds a little vague on the surface, but that’s because this umbrella term captures just about anything you can think of. Solicitors know it, too, which is why you’ll often see door-to-door roofers, landscapers, and contractors.
2. Charity Work
It’s a thankless job, but plenty of salespeople work with charities. While they usually aren’t the aggressive type, some can be more pushy than others. Door-to-door salespeople don’t often stick around, but those on the street can employ some pretty gnarly tactics to keep your attention.
3. Political Canvassers
Oh, boy. A big election is coming up, and that means canvassers soliciting your support. It could be anything from asking for a signature to nailing signs in your lawn—and they’re all intimidating. Luckily, you can spot canvassers by their party colors.
4. Survey Scams
So-called neighborhood surveys are usually a scam. However, that doesn’t stop door-to-door salespeople from ringing your bell. They’re not always easy to avoid, but a good rule of thumb is if you don’t know who it is, don’t answer the door.
5. Internet Providers
Hey, how’s your internet? You look like you could use a new package. What about better cell coverage? All these things and more await you with the right salesperson—assuming you don’t slam the door in their face. They often come head-to-toe in company gear, so you’ll spot them quickly, too.
6. Realtors
Oh, you thought internet providers were bad? There’s no bigger pest than a realtor who wants your house. Real estate companies also have dozens of agents, which means you might not even get the same person every visit…but it’ll be the same place.
7. Home Security Systems
Ironically enough, plenty of door-to-door solicitors peddle home security systems. The thing is, unless you’re genuinely interested, there’s nothing they can do that cameras can’t. Doorbell cameras and sturdy locks are more than enough in most areas.
8. Solar Panels
We all want to save the planet, but not everyone has the money to go green. That won’t stop these solicitors, though! They know how to tug on your heartstrings, which is a harder tactic to ignore.
9. Religious Organizations
Not every religious group wants to recruit you. Sometimes, they simply host prayer groups or meetings for any newcomers to learn about their beliefs. However, others can push it a little further than that.
10. Cleaning Products
Are you interested in the latest vacuum? Would you like to invest in a brand-new stain remover? Solicitors know how important a tidy home is, and that’s exactly what they bank on. They’ll try to sell you on all the latest gadgets, usually for a hefty price.
As annoying as solicitors are, diligent homeowners can still scare them away. Let’s dive into a few ways to keep them off your property.
1. Put Up a Sign
It sounds simple, but many people forego a simple “no soliciting” sign. You can add a touch of personality to them, too, especially with a custom-made version! But the most important thing is that your message is kind, concise, and clear.
2. Install a Doorbell Camera
It’s way easier to ignore solicitors when you literally see them coming. Ring cameras (or even more affordable options from Amazon) give you insight into who’s on your porch. You can usually tell who they work for, too, making it easier to contact the company if they keep bothering you.
3. Call the Company Directly
Speaking of direct contact, you can always ring the company and request that they leave you alone. Many businesses have a “no contact” registry, and one phone call is all it takes to earn a spot on the list. Be very clear about your intentions when you call them, though.
4. Know Your Rights
Unfortunately, not every solicitor respects boundaries. If that’s the case, it’s important to know your rights. Put up a sign. Tell them you’re not interested. Ask them to leave. Ignoring your requests could easily land them in hot water for trespassing.
5. “Do Not Call” List
Sometimes, solicitors resort to calling over visiting. Thankfully, many areas implement a “do not call” registry, and it’s as useful as it sounds! Give them a ring, provide your name and phone number, and wait it out. Companies usually have a month to remove you from their lists.
6. Physical Barriers
Fences and gates can cost a pretty penny, but they can also keep solicitors away. It doesn’t need to be anything fancy; a simple fence at the edge of your property can at least give you an extra minute to see who’s coming and whether they want something from you.
7. Formal Complaints
There’s nothing wrong with complaining to a company, especially if they’re a nuisance. Sadly, there’s no real guarantee that they’ll listen, but if they keep pestering you, you’ll have a paper trail you can easily bring to the authorities.
8. Be Concise
If you do get caught by a solicitor, it’s important to remain calm and be precise. Tell them that you’re not interested. Ask them not to come back. You can be firm in your stance without inciting violence or making things awkward.
9. Ask for Their Credentials
A good way to scare solicitors is by asking for their license. More often than not, door-to-door salespeople don’t carry official ID, which not only makes them look unprofessional but also indicates that you know your rights.
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10. File a Police Report
Most solicitors leave when you tell them to. Heck, even ignoring them is enough to deter a revisit. But not everyone takes no for an answer, especially with commission on the line. If that’s the case, bring it to the police. If you have any cameras, make sure to record their visits to help build your case.
