Utah Door-to-Door Sales and 3-Day Cancellation Rights
Plain-English guide to the Home Solicitation Sales Act, the cooling-off rule, and how to cancel correctly
You have probably had that knock at the door, a salesperson pitching a cleaning system, solar panels, or a home security plan that sounds great in the moment. If you change your mind after signing, Utah law gives you a short cooling-off period for certain door-to-door sales so you can cancel without penalty. Bottom line up front: learn when the 3-day cancellation rule applies, how to cancel the right way, and how to protect yourself from common solicitation scams.
Case Scenario: A Sale You Regret
Imagine a Utah homeowner signs a contract for an expensive air purifier after a high-pressure home demonstration. Later that evening, they realize the cost is too high and the product unnecessary. Utah’s Home Solicitation Sales Act allows them to cancel within three business days, but only if they act quickly and follow the correct steps.
What Counts as a Home Solicitation Sale
Under Utah Code § 13-15, a “home solicitation sale” generally means any sale of $25 or more where the agreement is made at your home or somewhere other than the seller’s normal business location.
That includes:
- Door-to-door product demonstrations
- At-home repair or improvement contracts
- Services sold during in-person home visits
It does not include:
- Sales made entirely online or by mail
- Emergency repairs requested by the homeowner
- Purchases under $25
Your 3-Day Cancellation Window
You have three business days from the date of the transaction to cancel in writing. Sundays and legal holidays do not count. If you sign on a Friday, the clock typically runs until midnight on Wednesday.
Federal law mirrors this through the FTC Cooling-Off Rule, and Utah adds its own protections by requiring clear written disclosures of your cancellation rights.
How to Send a Valid Notice
Your cancellation must be in writing and delivered or mailed to the seller within that 3-day window. It does not need to be fancy; a simple statement that you are cancelling the sale is enough. Include:
- Your name and address
- The date of purchase
- A short statement like “I am cancelling this sale.”
Keep a copy for your records and use certified mail when possible.
Refunds and Return of Goods
Once the seller receives your notice, they have 10 business days to refund payments and pick up any goods delivered. You must make the goods available in substantially the same condition. If the seller does not retrieve them within 20 days, they are yours to keep without charge.
Exceptions and Scams to Avoid
Common exceptions:
- Insurance, real estate, or securities contracts
- Emergency home repairs you requested
- Motor vehicle sales which follow separate laws
Be cautious of sellers who:
- Fail to provide a written cancellation notice
- Push “today only” pricing to rush your decision
- Refuse refunds or give vague return instructions
If a salesperson violates these requirements, report them to the Utah Division of Consumer Protection.
Cheat Sheet: Utah Door-to-Door Sale Rules
Video & Social Learning Hub
YouTube: Understanding the 3-Day Rule
Need Help Applying This to Your Situation?
Door-to-door sales can catch anyone off guard, but Utah’s 3-day cancellation rule gives you breathing room. If a sale feels rushed or unclear, act quickly, document everything, and put your cancellation in writing.
Talk to a Utah AttorneyUtah Law Explained publishes plain-English guides to help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes under Utah consumer protection laws. This article is educational information only, not legal advice.