About This Book

Maryland Door-To-Door Sales Act: Key Consumer Protections

The Maryland Door-To-Door Sales Act (Maryland Commercial Law Code § 14-301 et seq.) is a state consumer protection law that grants buyers a "cooling-off" period to cancel certain in-person sales of $25 or more that occur away from the seller's regular place of business, such as at the buyer's home.

Core Protections and Rules

Right to Cancel: Buyers generally have 3 business days to cancel a standard door-to-door consumer sale after signing a contract.

Extended Cancellation Window for Home Improvements: For door-to-door home improvement contracts, the cancellation period is extended to 5 business days, or 7 business days if the buyer is 65 years of age or older.

Mandatory Disclosures: Sellers must provide the buyer with a fully completed copy of the contract or receipt written in the primary language used during the sales presentation, along with a detachable duplicate "Notice of Cancellation" form.

Unlawful Practices: Failing to provide the required cancellation notice or contract copy constitutes an unfair or deceptive trade practice under Maryland law. In such cases, the buyer may cancel the agreement by notifying the seller through any means.

Seller Obligations Upon Cancellation: If a buyer cancels, the seller must return all payments, trade-ins, or negotiable instruments within 10 business days.