Außergeschäftsraumverträge

Außergeschäftsraumverträge, also known as off-premises contracts in English, are agreements concluded outside of a business's regular operating premises. This category typically includes contracts made in a consumer's home, at their workplace, or during an unsolicited visit by a salesperson. The legal framework surrounding these contracts aims to protect consumers who may be more susceptible to pressure or persuasion when they are in unfamiliar or uncomfortable settings.

In many jurisdictions, consumers have a specific right of withdrawal for Außergeschäftsraumverträge. This means that after signing the contract, the consumer has a defined period, often 14 days, during which they can cancel the agreement without providing a reason and without incurring penalties. This cooling-off period is designed to give consumers time to reconsider their purchase or agreement in a less pressured environment.

The specific rules and regulations regarding Außergeschäftsraumverträge can vary significantly between countries and even within different states or regions. Common elements include detailed information requirements for the seller, such as providing the consumer with written notice of their right to withdraw and the terms of the contract. Failure to comply with these requirements can extend the withdrawal period or even render the contract invalid. Examples of Außergeschäftsraumverträge include door-to-door sales, contracts signed at trade fairs away from the exhibitor's usual business premises, or agreements made during organized excursions.