Right of Withdrawal for Doorstep Sales in Rotterdam
In Rotterdam, as a consumer you can cancel a door-to-door purchase within 14 days free of charge, without giving a reason, thanks to the right of withdrawal for doorstep sales. This protects Rotterdam residents from rash decisions during unexpected sales visits at home, which often occur in busy neighborhoods like Rotterdam-South or the port area. Doorstep selling, or door-to-door sales, falls under the rules for off-premises contracts, which include a statutory cooling-off period for considered choices.
What is doorstep selling and when does the right apply in Rotterdam?
Doorstep selling involves the sale of products or services at your home address by a seller without a fixed establishment at your home. Examples in Rotterdam: a door-to-door salesperson offering vacuum cleaners, solar panels, or insulation for your row house. This article builds on our overview of doorstep selling (door-to-door sales).
The right of withdrawal applies to off-premises contracts, including doorstep sales. You have 14 days to withdraw, starting from the purchase date or delivery of the information. Without this right, you risk being stuck with a high-pressure contract.
Legal basis of the right of withdrawal
The provisions are set out in Dutch Civil Code Book 6 (DCC), Title 3, Section 5.3. Relevant articles:
- Art. 6:230m DCC: Defines off-premises contracts, such as doorstep selling at home.
- Art. 6:230o DCC: Establishes the 14-day cooling-off period.
- Art. 6:230h DCC: Requires the seller to provide information on withdrawal, usually via a model form.
- Art. 6:230j DCC: Additional rules for doorstep sales, including written confirmation within 7 days.
These rules implement EU Directive 2011/83/EU. Since 2014, the same 14-day period for doorstep sales applies nationwide in the Netherlands, including Rotterdam, as for online shops.
How to exercise the right of withdrawal in practice?
Step by step in Rotterdam:
- Enter into the contract: Seller provides a copy of the purchase agreement and withdrawal information.
- Cooling-off period: 14 days from receipt of the information or products.
- Withdraw: Send a clear statement (post, email, or form), e.g., "I cancel the purchase of [product] dated [date]."
- Refund: Seller reimburses everything within 14 days, including shipping costs.
- Return goods: At seller's expense, unless otherwise agreed.
Example 1 Rotterdam: Mrs. Jansen from Feijenoord buys a €500 water purifier at the door. After four days, she withdraws using the model form sent by registered mail. The seller arranges pickup and refunds within days.
Example 2 Rotterdam: Mr. De Vries from Kralingen signs up for an energy subscription. He withdraws within 10 days. If refused, he refers to Art. 6:230o DCC; the seller complies.
Rights and obligations upon withdrawal
| Your rights | Seller's obligations | Your obligations |
|---|---|---|
| 14-day cooling-off period, no reason needed | Provide information on the right | Return products undamaged |
| Full refund within 14 days | Cover return shipping costs | Send withdrawal notice on time |
| No costs if not used | Supply model form | Keep proof of withdrawal |
You may test the item as you would in a Rotterdam store, but avoid damage. No information provided? The cooling-off period extends up to 12 months!
Exceptions for Rotterdam residents
Not every door-to-door purchase qualifies:
- Purchases under €50 (unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Custom-made items (e.g., Rotterdam roller blinds).
- Hygiene products with broken seal (e.g., lingerie).
- Transport or hospitality contracts.
Check the agreement carefully.
Frequently asked questions about doorstep sales in Rotterdam
Do I need to give a reason for cancellation?
No, a brief statement suffices, as on the standard form.
No model form received?
Cooling-off period starts only upon receipt of information, max 12 months + 14 days. Request it.
Can I withdraw after delivery?
Yes, within 14 days. Return at seller's expense.
What about telephone door-to-door sales?
Counts as off-premises; right of withdrawal applies.
Tips for Rotterdam residents
- Always read the purchase agreement before signing and demand the cooling-off period.
- Withdraw by registered mail for proof.
- Keep receipts and emails.
- Problems? Report to ACM, Juridisch Loket Rotterdam, or Rotterdam District Court. For disputes: start with Rotterdam Municipality.
- Also read: Consumer Purchase and Cooling-off Period.
Unsure? Call Juridisch Loket Rotterdam for free advice. They assist Rotterdam residents with their rights.