CONSUMER Protection has echoed Water Corporation’s July warning about bogus doorknockers claiming to be from the utility after receiving more reports.
It issued a statement todaythat there had been reports of door-to-door water testers giving an impression they were from the government, but were really selling water filtration systems.
Residents in Yanchep, Clarkson, Kinross, Carramar, Shenton Park and East Perth had reported that doorknockers said they were testing water quality in the area, then told residents the water was unsafe to drink and recommended they buy a water filtration system, discounted to $2700.
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READ NOWA false statement that the home owners may be able to claim a refund from the government was also made.
Consumer Protection Commissioner David Hillyard said an investigation was being conducted into the salespeople who used deceptive tactics to drum up business.
“Salespeople who mislead consumers about their identity and then carry out what is probably a fake test to dupe them into a purchase are clearly breaking the law,” he said.
“Creating fear in the community by making false claims about water quality is an unacceptable sales pitch.
“We urge anyone who is approached in this manner to get the salesperson’s details and contact us immediately.”
Water Corporation confirmed its employees did not need to enter a home to check water quality and wouldn’t seek to do so unless the occupant had requested assistance.
“You should never allow anyone into your home until you have asked to see an identification card. Our employees will always carry one and let you look at it,” spokeswoman Clare Lugar said.
“If you are in any doubt, ask them for their name and call us on 13 13 75 to confirm they are in fact from the Water Corporation.”
Ms Lugar said water supplied by the utility complied with health requirements in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and was safe.
“Any direct claims or imputations by door to door salespeople that it’s not safe, is somehow inferior or requires filtering are incorrect and, frankly, outrageous,” she said.
Email Consumer Protection via consumer@dmirs.wa.gov.au or call 1300 30 40 54.