Right of Withdrawal for Door-to-Door Sales in Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, the right of withdrawal for door-to-door sales gives residents the opportunity to cancel a door-to-door purchase free of charge within 14 days, without needing to provide a reason. This protects Amsterdammers from impulsive decisions during unexpected sales visits at home, often in neighborhoods like the Jordaan or De Pijp. Door-to-door sales, or canvassing, are governed by rules for off-premises contracts that include a statutory cooling-off period to allow for informed choices.
When does the right of withdrawal apply to door-to-door sales in Amsterdam?
Door-to-door sales involve the sale of products or services at your home address by a seller without a fixed establishment there. Examples include door-to-door salespeople offering water filters, solar panels, or telecom subscriptions in Amsterdam canal houses. This builds on our overview of door-to-door sales.
The right applies to off-premises contracts such as door-to-door sales. You have 14 days from the purchase date or receipt of information to withdraw, so you're not locked into a rushed contract.
Legal basis for withdrawal
The provisions are set out in Dutch Civil Code Book 6 (DCC), Title 3, Section 5.3. Key articles:
- Art. 6:230m DCC: Defines off-premises contracts, including house-to-house canvassing.
- Art. 6:230o DCC: Establishes the 14-day cooling-off period.
- Art. 6:230h DCC: Requirements for pre-contractual information from the seller, usually via a model form.
- Art. 6:230j DCC: Additional rules for door-to-door sales, such as confirmation within 7 days.
Based on EU Directive 2011/83/EU; since 2014, a uniform 14-day period applies, just like for online shops.
Withdrawing step by step in practice
Straightforward process:
- Enter into the contract: Seller provides a copy of the contract and withdrawal information.
- Cooling-off period: 14 days from receipt of information or goods.
- Withdraw: Send an unequivocal statement (post, email, form). E.g.: "I cancel the purchase of [product] dated [date]."
- Refund: Full amount within 14 days, including delivery costs.
- Return goods: At seller's expense; otherwise, you pay.
Example 1: Ms. Bakker from Amsterdam East buys a €500 water purifier at the door. After four days, she withdraws using the model form sent by registered mail. The seller refunds and collects it.
Example 2: Mr. Smit from West signs a new energy contract. He withdraws within 10 days; citing Art. 6:230o DCC, the seller complies.
Rights and obligations upon withdrawal
| Your rights as an Amsterdam resident | Seller's obligations | Your obligations |
|---|---|---|
| 14 days, no reason needed | Provide withdrawal information | Return products undamaged |
| Full refund within 14 days | Cover return shipping costs | Send withdrawal notice promptly |
| No extra costs if unused | Supply model form | Keep proof of withdrawal |
Try products as you would in a store, but avoid damage. No information provided? Cooling-off period extends up to 12 months later!
Exceptions to withdrawal for door-to-door sales
Not everything qualifies:
- Purchases under €50 (unless specified otherwise).
- Custom-made items (e.g., roller blinds).
- Hygiene products with broken seal (e.g., lingerie).
- Travel or meal delivery services.
Review the purchase agreement carefully.
Frequently asked questions about door-to-door sales
Do I need to give a reason?
No, a simple statement suffices, as on the standard form.
No model form provided?
Cooling-off period starts upon receipt of information, max. 12 months + 14 days. Request it.
Withdraw after delivery?
Yes, within the deadline. Return at seller's expense.
Phone-based door deal?
Counts as off-premises; withdrawal possible.
Tips for Amsterdammers
- Review the contract before signing and insist on the cooling-off period.
- Withdraw by registered mail for proof.
- Keep all paperwork.
- Problems? Report to the Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM), Amsterdam Legal Advice Office, or Amsterdam District Court.
- Also read: Consumer Purchases and Cooling-Off Period.
Unsure? Call the Amsterdam Legal Advice Office for free advice or engage local legal aid. Protect your rights in the city!